Native Americans utilized Government Island for millennia, and after the federal government purchased it in 1791, its unique Aquia sandstone was used in the original construction of both the U.S. Capital and the White House. The quarry's stone was favored for its bright color, fine-grained quality, and ease in intricate carving. George mason and George Washington were among the quarry's most prominent clients. Government Island sandstone was also used for door and window trim, foundations, grave markers, churches, plantation homes, and other prominent buildings. Government Island is now a Stafford County park and is listed in the National Register of Historic Places and the Virginia Landmarks Register.