George Washington died on December 14, 1799, after which Martha destroyed many of their letters.
After George Washington’s death on December 14, 1799, Martha Washington, in a poignant act of privacy, destroyed many of their personal letters. This act has contributed to the limited personal documentary record of their life together, and has left historians with less insight into their intimate relationship. It underscored Martha’s lifelong commitment to preserving the dignity and confidentiality of her family.