Clermont is also known for being the birthplace of Fitzhugh Lee (November 9, 1835 – April 18, 1905), nephew of Robert E. Lee, grandson of John Mason, Confederate cavalry general in the American Civil War, Governor of Virginia, diplomat, and United States Army general in the Spanish–American War.
[5] Dulaney's family members were loyalists during the American Revolutionary War and many of them lost their possessions and property.
[5] After suffering financial setbacks, Mason was forced to give up his island residence, and in 1833, he and his family relocated to the Virginia countryside at Clermont.
The Mansion and its appurtenances are of the most ample and commodious description, beautifully situated on a gentle eminence, and overlooking the Town of Alexandria and the lowlands of the estate.
[5] During the American Civil War, Forrest resigned his commission with the United States Navy and offered his services to Virginia.
[5] Forrest assumed command of the Norfolk Naval Shipyard where he supervised the construction of the CSS Virginia.