Meet an Interpreter: Cathy Bonnefil

It’s that time again! GWW interviews Cathy Bonnefil this month- one of the blue-blazered history geniuses that bring George Washington to life for over a million visitors each year.

GWW: Why did you become an interpreter?

CB: I had always been interested in history, but during my working career I really never had the time to indulge that interest.

GWW: If you could be any 18th century historical figure, who would it be?

CB: The Marquis de Lafayette

GWW: What is your favorite thing about being an interpreter?

CB: Telling GW stories which, to me, is a great honor. I especially enjoy using quotes, which seems to bring the story more to life. Most visitors are suprised to learn that GW had a great sense of humor, or that he was soooooooo romantic in letters to Mrs. Washington, or even that he personally stopped a military coup against the US infant government.

GWW: Funniest thing that ever happened while you were interpreting?

CB: One day, there was a visitor who kept asking for obscure information on the dam design in Washington’s canal plans. After demurring a few times, I finally said with a smile, “Sir, you must understand that I’m no dam expert.” He had the grace to laugh.

GWW: Favorite place at Mount Vernon?

CB: The Tomb in the morning when I’m all alone.

GWW: Fun tidbits about you?

CB: I was raised in a small town in northwest Ohio and joined the Army Nurse Corps during the Vietnam era (Ouch!! There is a clue to my age). Courtesy of the Army, I went many, many places in the world before retiring in 2004. Along the way, my husband, Max, and I raised two great daughters, and we have recently become grandparents, which is much more fun than being a parent.

Tags: Cathy Bonnefil, interpreter, interview

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