Today in Johnson City History, Sunday, February 22, 2026

George Washington's birthday, Elizabethton's 'Cow Bell'

Friday, February 22, 1732: Two hundred and ninety-four years ago today, George Washington was born. “First president of the United States (‘first in war, first in peace, and first in the hearts of his countrymen’ in the words of Henry ‘Light-Horse Harry’ Lee). Born at Westmoreland County, Virginia (New Style). However, the Julian (Old Style) calendar was still in use in the colonies when he was born, and the year began in March, so the date on the calendar when he was born was February 11, 1731. He died at Mount Vernon, Virginia, on December 14, 1799.” (Source: Chase’s Calendar of Events, 2026).