Date: December 6th, 2025 7:53 PM
Author: SneakersSO
1. John Adams (1807):
“a tall Stature, like the Hebrew Sovereign chosen because he was taller by the Head than the other Jews.”
2. Dr. James Thacher (18th century):
“remarkably tall, full six feet, erect and well proportioned. The strength and proportion of his joints and muscles, appear to be commensurate with the pre-eminent powers of his mind.”
3. Contemporary observer (quoted in The True George Washington):
“He may be described as being as straight as an Indian, measuring six feet two inches in his stockings… His frame is padded with well-developed muscles, indicating great strength.”
4. Another contemporary description (same source):
“There was a commanding air in his movements, and a calmness in his manners which seemed to strike every beholder with respect.”
5. Ron Chernow (Washington: A Life):
“Tall, and extremely muscular, Washington… filled out his Continental Army uniform very well, and he always carried himself with dignity and grace.”
6. Edward G. Lengel (General George Washington: A Military Life):
“Washington stood about six feet tall by the time he was a young adult, a height that made him tower over most of his contemporaries.”
7. Benson J. Lossing (19th-century historian):
“In person he was noble and imposing; in stature about six feet two inches, straight and admirably proportioned, with muscular strength that few men could rival.”
8. Washington Irving (Life of George Washington):
“His personal appearance was in keeping with his character—tall, of a robust and powerful frame, and possessing a dignity of presence which inspired deference and commanded respect wherever he appeared.”
9. Jared Sparks (editor of Washington’s writings, early 19th century):
“His form was tall, erect, and athletic; his limbs were well shaped and graceful; his strength was great, and capable of enduring the severest fatigue.”
10. David Ramsay (18th-century historian):
“He was tall, dignified, and majestic in his walk; his frame hardy and muscular, fitted alike to endure the fatigues of war or the vigorous pursuits of the field.”
11. British officer’s recollection (Revolutionary War era):
“The General is a tall, commanding figure, exceeding six feet, with a carriage so erect and firm that he seems formed by nature for the camp and the saddle.”
12. French officer’s impression (Marquis de Barbé-Marbois):
“He is a man of lofty stature, well made, and of a noble and commanding countenance which announces a soul the friend of order.”
(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=5807137&forum_id=2most#49489694)