Daniel Parke Custis
- Born:
- October 29, 1711, New Kent County, Virginia
- Died:
- July 8, 1757, New Kent County, Virginia
- Nationality:
- British American
- Profession(s):
- Planter, Landowner
Early Life and Education
- Born into a wealthy and influential planter family in Virginia.
- Inherited substantial land and property from his father, John Custis IV.
- Received a private education befitting his social status.
Career and Major Achievements
- Managed and expanded his inherited plantations, becoming a prominent landowner.
- Engaged in the cultivation of tobacco and other agricultural products.
- Served as a vestryman in the local Anglican church.
- His financial standing and social connections positioned him as a respected figure in colonial Virginia society.
Marriage and Family
- Married Martha Dandridge (later Martha Washington) on May 15, 1750. His marriage to Martha significantly increased his already considerable wealth and social standing, leading to a complex estate management situation after his early death.
- Had four children with Martha:
- Daniel Parke Custis, Jr. (1751-1754)
- Frances Parke Custis (1753-1757)
- John Parke Custis (1754-1781)
- Martha Parke Custis (1756-1773)
Legacy and Impact
Daniel Parke Custis was a wealthy planter whose early death significantly impacted the life of his widow, Martha. His estate, inherited by his children, later played a crucial role in the financial affairs of Martha's second husband, George Washington.