Dedications

George Washington

The General was an amazing person, well liked and respected by the young nation that he helped create. He became commander in chief of American forces in the Revolutionary War. After the War, he surrendered his military commission and subsequently was elected unanimously in 1789 to become the first president of the United States. Wherever he went, he preferred simply to be called “General”.

The General had no middle name. And contrary to the custom of the times, he didn’t wear a powdered wig. What you see in paintings and statues is his real hair, as he always wore it. He was a humble man. As a leader, he remained respectful of God, everyone around him, and his personal limitations. He was always in pursuit of wisdom.

He was a master entrepreneur. His formal education ended at age 15, but he was committed to a lifelong pursuit of self-education. He was the “foremost farmer” of America. He was always looking for ways at Mount Vernon to pioneer or refine techniques to make them better.

“There is nothing which can better deserve our patronage than the promotion of science and literature. Knowledge is in every country the surest basis of public happiness.” [George Washington, address to Congress, January 8, 1790]

“I can truly say I had rather be at Mount Vernon with a friend or two about me, than to be attended at the Seat of Government by the Officers of State and the Representatives of every Power in Europe.” [George Washington, letter to David Stuart, June 15, 1790]

Karl & Ann Farnlacher

Karl and Ann Farnlacher were very special people. Both were selfless, generous, hard-working members of “The Greatest Generation”.  We wish to thank their estate and family for generous support and development of this website.

Ann, a medical technologist/hospital blood bank supervisor, valued science, education, logic, and service to family, friends, neighbors, and students.  She designed their dream home that was their haven when not traveling the globe.  She enjoyed preparing delicious meals, decorating their beautiful home, hosting meetings and family gatherings.  She was partial to performing quality vocal music, raising and displaying beautiful flowers, and celebrating Christmas.  She organized a block watch group that for decades has helped protect neighborhood families.

Karl, a brilliant horologist, reputedly one of the best in the U.S., was a life-long high school history teacher.  He always employed the best techniques for the fine repair and restoration of watches and clocks, and described these techniques to others aspiring to do good work. He was partial to boxing, field and track, and his running.  He enjoyed jazz, quality time with friends and family, and traveling with Ann.  He was a veteran of WWII and performed one of the most highly classified jobs in the military: his knowledge of horology qualified him to repair Norden bombsights. His discoveries in the Farnlacher genealogy helped raise the awareness for thousands in our family. He organized a watchmaker’s auction that for many years helped amateurs and professionals work their craft.