As Jason Boroughs, Mount Vernon's chief archaeologist, told NBC, the condition of the fruits, which are about 250 years old, is unique. In cooperation with the USDA, the DNA of the finds, which probably include gooseberries and currants, is now being analyzed. The spokesperson of the Ministry of Agriculture did not rule out the possibility that some of the approximately 50 cherry stones found could be used to grow new trees.
In 1757, Washington had Mount Vernon built near Alexandria on the Potomac River according to his plans. More than 30 years later, the trained surveyor and soldier became the first president of the United States.