Where did George Washington resign as commander in chief of the Continental Army in 1783?

George Washington resigned as commander in chief of the Continental Army at the Maryland State House in Annapolis in 1783.

The ceremony took place on December 23, 1783, before the Congress of the Confederation. Washington handed his commission to Thomas Mifflin, the presiding officer of Congress, and then returned to civilian life at Mount Vernon.

His voluntary resignation was celebrated as an important example of civilian control over the military. Washington had commanded the Continental Army through the Revolutionary War, yet he surrendered his authority rather than retaining power after victory. The act became part of his public reputation for republican self-restraint.

Paintings and later retellings sometimes create confusion about who attended. Martha Washington was not present, despite appearing in some artistic depictions. Washington’s resignation also occurred after the Treaty of Paris had been signed and after British troops had left New York City.