Before becoming the commander of the Continental Army and the first President of the United States, George Washington built his reputation as a professional land surveyor. Between 1749 and 1752, from the ages of 17 to 20, Washington completed more than 190 land surveys across Virginia’s western frontier, a profession that developed his leadership, mathematical precision, and firsthand knowledge of the American landscape.
This remarkable document, dated October 13, 1750, authorized the 18-year-old Washington to survey approximately 400 acres of ungranted land in Virginia’s Northern Neck Proprietary for Richard Stephenson, an early settler and future acquaintance. The warrant was issued by George William Fairfax, a close friend and mentor to Washington whose family helped launch the young surveyor’s career. Washington had previously received his official commission as surveyor of Culpeper County through the influence of the Fairfax family.
The warrant instructed Washington to conduct an accurate survey, recording the property’s boundaries, neighboring landowners, compass bearings, distances, and the names of the pilot and chain carriers assisting in the work. Once completed, the survey and accompanying plat were to be returned to the Proprietor’s Office before March 25, 1751.
