George Washington's Birthdays Author:Wilma Pitchford Hays Today was very special to George Washington for two reasons. It was his eleventh birthday and he was going to ride Firebrand, his colt, for the first time. — The events of this and future birthdays helped to shape the life of young George. He was to know sorrow at the death of his father, and excitement at the prospect of a career at sea. — With t... more »he skillful blending of historic fact and a gift for storytelling, Wilma Hays has written a unique, absorbing story of the early life of George Washingon, first President of the United States.« less