Family tradition maintains George and Martha Washington used this stand at Mount Vernon, but whether it represents one or more original Washington pieces is the subject of ongoing research. Careful examination reveals its top and pillar were joined at a later date, and the legs have at least been shortened, if not replaced. In the eighteenth century, small stands with tilt-tops were employed anywhere a flat surface was needed - to hold a candle, write a letter, or take a cup of tea.