Richard Rowland

When character was in style.


George Washington had led the new nation successfully in war and in peace for a total of 23 years with no pay except out-of-pocket expenses, and had voluntarily surrendered his supreme offices when many wished him to continue in them. He would carry into retirement the profound admiration and gratitude of his countrymen and the well-earned esteem of the whole known world.

The immense regard Americans had for him while he lived has withstood the closest historical analysis and has not wavered or declined in the more than two centuries since his death. He is universally recognized as having been a capable general, a fine statesman, an outstanding president, and one of history's great men.

From the book, " Flight of The Eagle" by Conrad Black

pafret Loc: Northeast

US Constitution, Article II, Section 1
The President shall, at stated times, receive for his services, a compensation, which shall neither be increased nor diminished during the period for which he shall have been elected, and he shall not receive within that period any other emolument from the United States, or any of them.

America's first US president's annual salary was $25,000
Oct 1st 2016


How does the salary of George Washington compare to that of Barack Obama's?

The country's first U.S. president made $25,000 for the job in 1789. According to Business Insider, "That may not sound like much, but to put Washington's compensation into perspective, $25,000 in 1913 — the oldest year the inflation calculator accounts for — is equivalent to about $600,000 today. Imagine the value in 1789!"

In contrast, Obama was designated a yearly salary of $400,000, and he reportedly made nearly $800,000 in 2011 due to additional earnings from investments and book royalties.

While the two men may seem to have had somewhat comparable incomes in present day terms, Slate points out that Washington was not given money to pay for expenses related to his official duties so he had to subsidize some of them himself.

In fact, the founding father reportedly complained about not earning enough money to cover his costs.

Richard Rowland

So, which source does one believe?

pafret Loc: Northeast

Don't know, the Constitution provided for a salary but I read in the papers of one of the Founding Fathers (Adams I think) that Washington refused the salary and asked only for expenses. As I recall it Jefferson and Adams had to compel him to accept a salary because Washington would charge all of his living expenses, including his losses at cards, to the government. He was living large and the nation could not afford his lifestyle.

I wish I could remember where I read this. There are many internet sources giving different information. I can only refer to the Constitution which says he gets paid a salary.