Hoecakes and Hospitality: Cooking with Martha Washington

Visitors will soon be able to experience a behind-the-scenes look at the Washingtons' kitchen in a new exhibit at the .

Beginning Feb. 18, the Estate will unveil Hoecakes and Hospitality: Cooking with Martha Washington at the Donald W. Reyolds museum. The temporary exhibition celebrates food at Mount Vernon and Martha Washington's role as hostess, according to the Estate's website.

Visitors will learn how the first “first lady” managed to feed hundreds of guests – in a world without refrigerators, microwaves or running water. Guests at the Washingtons’ dinner table varied from foreign dignitaries like the Marquis de Lafayette, to Abigail Adams, to artists including Charles Willson Peale.

Dining with the Washingtons, a book featuring essays about the Washingtons' entertaining and recipes, was

Visitor will also be able to take home recipe cards featuring the modern versions of Washington favorites. The exhibit is included in regular Estate admission.