Strange Inheritance Season 2 Episode 4 Washington's Wallet

In Season 2, Episode 4 of Strange Inheritance, entitled "Washington's Wallet," host Jamie Colby travels to Alexandria, Virginia to meet Martha Washington's distant relative, Martha Dandridge Curtis. Martha Dandridge Curtis has in her possession a unique and treasured artifact - George Washington's wallet. This episode of Strange Inheritance delves into the fascinating history of George Washington's wallet - from its construction to its contents and its eventual journey into Martha Dandridge Curtis' family's possession.

The episode begins with Jamie Colby meeting Martha Dandridge Curtis in her stately home in Alexandria. A descendant of Martha Washington's sister Betty Dandridge Lewis, Martha inherited the wallet from her father who had received it from a fellow Freemason and longtime Arlington Cemetery groundskeeper. The wallet had originally been given to George Washington by a man named Jameson who had been part of the Masonic Lodge. As Jamie Colby examines the wallet, Martha reveals the various treasures found inside.

Martha tells Jamie that George Washington's wallet became a bit of a "man purse" for the first president. Inside, there are numerous compartments and hidden pockets to store everything from hair ribbons and coins to military orders and even a lice comb. The wallet itself is made of leather and still retains its intricate stitching. Perhaps the most interesting item found inside the wallet is a lock of hair from George and Martha Washington's granddaughter, Nelly Custis.

Jamie and Martha discuss the importance of the wallet to Martha's family. Despite owning the wallet for over 50 years, the family had never considered selling it. They saw it as a family treasure and the history it contained was considered priceless. However, Martha's daughter encouraged her to reach out to the Smithsonian Museum to see if they had any interest in acquiring the wallet.

Jamie and Martha travel to the Smithsonian where they meet with the curator of the Division of Political and Military History, Dr. Harry Rubenstein. Dr. Rubenstein is no stranger to preserving America's past - his portfolio includes acquiring such gems as the Star-Spangled Banner and Abraham Lincoln's top hat. However, despite owning a vast collection of Washington's personal items, the Smithsonian does not currently have George Washington's wallet in its possession.

Dr. Rubenstein is excited to examine the wallet in person and offers Martha and her daughter a unique opportunity to showcase the collection at the Smithsonian's upcoming History Day. Martha agrees to the offer and the family is thrilled at the prospect of sharing their treasure with the public.

As the episode concludes, Martha Dandridge Curtis and her family attend the Smithsonian's History Day. Crowds gather around as Jamie Colby and Dr. Rubenstein showcase the wallet, explaining its history and significance. Families line up to take photos with the wallet, while Martha's family stands back and observes the public's interest in their family heirloom.

In the end, Martha Dandridge Curtis and her family realize the importance of sharing their family's treasure with the public. They decide to donate George Washington's wallet to the Smithsonian Museum, ensuring the wallet and its history will be preserved for generations to come.