march 24–30, 2025

What's New

Unearthing History: Mount Vernon's Cherry Discoveries

Alexandria History Museum at The Lyceum, 201 South Washington Street
Tuesday, April 8
6:30 p.m., Reception, 7 p.m. Program
$30 
Purchase tickets.

Find out from Mount Vernon archaeologists about the amazing treasure trove of 250-year-old bottles of perfectly preserved cherries and berries they unearthed from under the Mansion in 2024, and how this extraordinary discovery provides a powerful glimpse into 18th-century culture. Light refreshments will be served. $30 per person; one drink ticket included. Proceeds to benefit the 2025 George Washington Birthday Celebration. 

Help Shape the Future of Alexandria's Museums: Participate in a Social Impact Study!

Help Shape the Future of Alexandria’s Museums: Participate in a Social Impact Study! The Office of Historic Alexandria is one of forty institutions from across the nation participating in this study. To learn more and sign up, visit 
Museum Social Impact Survey | City of Alexandria, VA  

Historic Alexandria is looking for at least 150 individuals to participate in the survey.  If selected based on some simple qualifications, participants will visit three different Historic Alexandria museums once each between now and the end of July. Participants will then complete a 30-minute survey to share how their experiences at the museums impacted various outcomes. 

For completing the survey, participants will receive a special thank you gift and be invited to a special event in November sharing the results, plus free admission into the ALXHistoryLovers Society.

Alexandria Archaeology Summer Camp - Registration NOW OPEN!

Alexandria Archaeology Summer Camp
Monday - Friday, June 23-27
9 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Ages 13 - 15
$400, with scholarships available
Registration is limited; apply here

Help City archaeologists excavate a real archaeological site and preserve Alexandria's historic resources! Campers, ages 13 - 15, will learn scientific excavating and artifact processing methods.

Registration opened on Tuesday, March 4. Registration is limited and applications are processed on a first-come, first served basis. The week-long camp is $400 with scholarships available. Sign up by first making a payment for the camp at The Alexandria Shop or by calling 703.746.4399, and then sending in an application online or picking up forms from the Alexandria Archaeology Museum, 105 N Union St., #327. Refunds cannot be made after May 2, 2025. Camper space is not guaranteed until payment is made. 

Friendship Firehouse Museum Open this Saturday, March 29

Head to the Friendship Firehouse Museum this Saturday! The museum is located at 107 S. Alfred Street, Alexandria. Discover the history of the Friendship Fire Company, founded in 1774 as Alexandria’s first volunteer fire brigade. Explore the city’s early firefighting efforts and see the beautifully restored 1858 Rodgers Suction Engine. The Museum will be open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, March 29. 

Upcoming Events

View the Historic Alexandria Calendar                                                                                                                                                      

Alexandria Historical Society Lecture Series: George Mason and the Tenth Amendment
Alexandria History Museum at The Lyceum, 201 South Washington Street
Wednesday, March 26
7 p.m., doors open at 6:30 p.m.
Light refreshments will be available
$5, Free for Members
Purchase tickets.

The Tenth Amendment to the Constitution has been controversial throughout American History. Most recently it has been a favored vehicle on the part of conservatives to reduce the size of the federal government on the basis that the Tenth Amendment requires that states retain all powers not specifically delegated to the federal government. At other times it has been used to justify slavery and racial segregation, as well as to combat a variety of liberal labor and economic laws.  George Mason was the first to propose the elements of the future Tenth Amendment at the Constitutional Convention of 1787.  He is given credit for his role in the Bill of Rights, but rarely recognized for his more favored amendment, the Tenth.  

Presenter is John Rand, a recently retired Alexandria attorney after almost forty years. His interest in history resulted in a PhD from George Mason University in American History in May, 2024.   

Lecture: Hidden Nurses
Alexandria History Museum at The Lyceum
201 South Washington Street
Thursday, March 27
7- 9 p.m. 
$12, $10 Historic Alexandria members
Purchase tickets. 

Join Dr. Victoria Tucker, Nurse and Public Historian, for a powerful presentation on the history of African American nursing students in Albemarle County, Virginia. While pursuing a Ph.D. in Nursing at the University of Virginia, Dr. Tucker uncovered the inspiring story of African American nurses who were barred from attending UVA but pursued their careers through the segregated J.P. Burley High School. Dr. Tucker’s research, which involved archival materials, oral histories, and material culture, sheds light on their struggles and triumphs. Her work has led to a public apology from UVA, and a memorial bench and natural space have been dedicated in their honor.

Specialty Tour: Guided Tour of Fort Ward Museum & Historic Site
Fort Ward Museum
4301 W Braddock Road
Saturday, March 29 
10-11 a.m.
$15, $12 Historic Alexandria members
Purchase tickets.

This guided tour highlights the Defenses of Washington and one veteran’s efforts to preserve its story. The tour begins inside with the special exhibit, “Lewis Cass White: Preserving the Legacy of Fort Stevens,” then continues outside to see the preserved earthwork fort. Please note this tour involves walking on outdoor paths and takes place rain or shine.

Film Screening and Talk - Resolved Never Again
Manassas Museum
9101 Prince William Street
Saturday, March 29 
2-3 p.m.
Free 
Register Online

Resolved: Never Again is a poignant 50 minute documentary that traces Alexandria’s journey from its establishment in 1749, through its role as a major hub for the domestic slave trade, to the lynchings of JosephMcCoy and Benjamin Thomas, and finally to present-day efforts to confront this past. Hear from Historic Alexandria staff as they discuss this important work. 

Civil War Hospital Tour
Lee-Fendall House Museum & Garden
614 Oronoco Street
Saturday, March 29 
2-3:15 p.m.
$15, Free for museum members
Purchase tickets.

Learn how the Lee-Fendall House was confiscated during the Civil War and operated as a Union Army hospital. Explore what life was like in Union-occupied Alexandria, how the Lee-Fendall House witnessed medical history, and how political divisions impacted those living here. Tickets are $15 to the general public and free for museum members. The tour is limited to 12 participants. Members, please call the museum to reserve your ticket. Please e-mail contact@leefendallhouse.org or call (703) 548-1789 with any questions.

Please note: this is a special house tour of Lee-Fendall. A separate tour, "Alexandria Confined," is the tour focusing on Civil War hospitals that is a 1.5 hour walking tour around Alexandria. 

All tickets can be purchased on Lee-Fendall's Eventbrite page: leefendallhouse.eventbrite.com.

Lecture: Deadlier than Bullets: Disease & The American Civil War
Lee-Fendall House Museum & Garden
614 Oronoco Street
Friday, April 4 
7-8:15 p.m.
$10, Free for museum members
Purchase tickets.

Visit the Lee-Fendall House for a fascinating lecture presented by Dr. Mary Dianne Murphy, Lee-Fendall docent and Board of Directors member. At the time of the Civil War, most physicians did know about the germ theory of infection. This presentation will discuss various diseases and their impact during the Civil and other wars.

Dr. Murphy received her medical degree from the Medical College of Virginia. After completing a pediatric residency at the University of Virginia, she spent three years at the National Naval Medical Center as a Navy pediatrician before completing a fellowship in pediatric infectious diseases at the University of Colorado.

Members please call at (703) 548-1789 to reserve your tickets. It is highly recommended to book tickets in advance as space is limited.

Tavern Games Night!  
Gadsby’s Tavern Museum
134 N. Royal Street
Friday, April 4
7 p.m.
$10
Purchase tickets.

While Women’s History Month might be over, Women’s History never stops, so we’re keeping it going with a women’s history themed game night. $10 cover includes tavern games and a themed presentation with the crowd-favorite jeopardy game featuring Alexandria’s Women’s History. Cash bar available (alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks). Mini-talk and jeopardy start around 7:30 p.m. Please note that this event takes place up one flight of stairs in the historic Assembly Room of Gadsby’s Tavern Museum. 

“Byline Old Town: A Walking Tour of Early Journalism in Alexandria”
Starting Location: Near City Hall / Market Square (exact details in reminder email)
Saturday, April 5
10 -11:30 a.m.
$25, $20 for Members
Purchase tickets.

Led by journalist and author Michael Pope, this engaging walking tour will explore Alexandria’s long and diverse press history, from the city’s first newspaper in 1784 to its pioneering television figures. Participants will visit key historical sites around Market Square and learn about the early days of Alexandria’s newspapers—including partisan, Black, independent, and chain publications—and the journalists who shaped public discourse.

This 90-minute tour offers a unique behind-the-scenes look at the city’s vibrant media landscape. It is an excellent opportunity for history enthusiasts, media professionals, and the community to connect with Alexandria’s past.

160th Commemoration of the Grosvenor Branch Hospital
Lee-Fendall House Museum & Garden, 614 Oronoco Street
Saturday, April 5 
12-1 p.m.: Plaque Dedication & Name Reading Ceremony (free admission)
1-4 p.m.: Indoor Activities ($5 admission)
Purchase tickets.

Join us for a special event honoring the 160th anniversary of the closing of Grosvenor Branch Hospital, once a prominent Union Army medical facility in Alexandria during the Civil War. This event will showcase how the historic Lee-Fendall House Museum was confiscated until April 1865, recognizing the significance of the property and its role in treating over a thousand soldiers - many of whom tragically died within its walls.

In conjunction with the 250th anniversary celebration of United States Army medicine, this event serves as both a remembrance and a reflection on the resilience of those who lived, fought, and died during this pivotal time in American history. Come commemorate the lives lost and learn more about the history of Civil War medicine at this moving event.

Specialty Tour: A Magical Apothecary
Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum, 105-107 South Fairfax Street
Saturday, April 19 
10 -11a.m. 
$15, $12 Historic Alexandria members
Purchase tickets.

Learn about the muggle botanical science that inspired the potions and herbology of Harry Potter's wizarding world on a tour of this 19th century apothecary, and make your own magical potion! Recommended for ages 8 and up.

The Alexandria Community Remembrance Project (ACRP) Presents - Between History and Hope
Roberts Memorial United Methodist Church
606 South Washington Street
Wednesday, April 23
6 p.m.
Free

Please join us as we honor the memory of Joseph McCoy, who was lynched in Alexandria in 1897, with a program that exposes the tangled roots of White Supremacy in America and the Western World. Dr. Robert P. Jones, the award-winning author of The Hidden Roots of White Supremacy and the Path to a Shared American Future, will reframe our origin story and expose the paradoxical impact and legacy of the Doctrine of Discovery, while also sharing stories of other communities doing similar work as ACRP. After speaking there will be a book signing, books will be available for purchase at the event.

Whisky Tasting
Alexandria History Museum at The Lyceum
201 South Washington Street
Saturday, April 26
5 p.m.
$60, $80 VIP Registration
Purchase tickets.

The City of Alexandria's Sister Cities Committee invites you to attend its annual signature event! Join us for an evening of Scotch and camaraderie as whisky enthusiasts lead a guided tasting across the five whisky regions of Scotland. This informative program will help you learn all about the rich tapestry that is Scotch whisky, enables you to sample five different whiskies from across Scotland, and provides an opportunity to ask questions and share personal insights. VIP ticket holders will be provided two additional samples of distinctive and hard-to-find whiskies (visit Alexandriava.gov/shop for the link to the VIP ticket option). Hors d'oeuvres will be provided. For non-whisky drinkers, wine and non-alcoholic beverages will be available.Ticket holders will take home with them their very own souvenir Glencairn glass to continue their exploration of the diverse and complex world of Scotch. A raffle will take place at the end of the event for fun prizes. Raffle tickets will be sold for cash at the event. All proceeds from the event aid the Alexandria Sister Cities Committee mission to support the educational and cultural exchanges between Alexandria, VA and her sister cities of Dundee, Scotland and Helsingborg, Sweden. Minimum Age: 21

Glimpses of Historic Alexandria: A Carol Stalun Exhibition
Lee-Fendall House Museum & Garden, 614 Oronoco Street
Open through Sunday, April 27
Learn more.

Lee-Fendall's newest exhibit, Glimpses of Historic Alexandria, showcases a collection of photographs by local Alexandria photographer, Carol Jean Stalun. This special exhibition brings together many of Stalun's works that are focused on historic sites around the city of Alexandria. Learn the history of these sites as you walk around the Lee-Fendall House that was built over 200 years ago. Admission into the exhibit is included with general admission.

Support Historic Alexandria

Historic Alexandria receives City operational funding to support its mission; however, these resources do not cover the full scope of the department’s strategic goals and projects. Donations, special revenue, and grant funding help supplement staff, conservation work, and educational programs.  Please consider making a gift today. 

Historic Alexandria Museum Hours

Plan your Visit

Alexandria Archaeology Museum 
Tuesdays–Fridays, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m., Saturdays, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m., Sundays, 1 – 5 p.m.

Alexandria Black History Museum
Thursdays & Fridays, 11 a.m.– 4 p.m., Saturdays, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m., Sundays, 1– 5 p.m.

Alexandria History Museum at The Lyceum 
Thursdays & Fridays, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m., Saturdays, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m., Sundays, 1 – 5 p.m.  

Fort Ward Museum 
Thursdays & Fridays, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m., Saturdays, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m., Sundays, 1 – 5 p.m.

Freedom House Museum
Saturdays, 11 a.m. –  5 p.m., Sundays, 1 – 5 p.m.

Friendship Firehouse Museum
Saturday, March 29, 11 a.m. –  5 p.m.

Gadsby’s Tavern Museum
Thursdays & Fridays, 11 a.m.– 4 p.m., Saturdays, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m., Sundays-Tuesdays, 1– 5 p.m.

Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum
Wednesdays–Fridays, 11 a.m.– 4 p.m., Saturdays, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m., Sundays & Mondays 1 - 5 p.m.

Visit our website and follow us on social media to discover new things about your hometown. For more information, visit alexandriava.gov/Historic. Admission to City of Alexandria museums is complimentary for city residents.

For reasonable disability accommodation, contact Nicole Quinn at historicalexandria@alexandriava.gov or call 703.746.4554, Virginia Relay 711.

This Week in Alexandria's History

More from This Day in History

On March, 28, 1904, the Alexandria City Engineer authorized construction of new wooden “Waste Paper Boxes” to be installed throughout the downtown area of the city. Built by local mechanics J.Y. Williams and R.F. Downham, a sample box was placed on exhibit for public view at 312 King Street. The sturdy box was painted a dark gray with hand-lettered advertising of major Alexandria merchants and was considered “a work of art.”  It was hoped that residents would use the new refuse boxes and stop their habit of discarding unwanted paper, fruit peels, and other trash in the streets of the downtown area.

Upcoming Commission and Committee Events

Commissions Supporting Historic Alexandria

• March 26 Schools and Libraries Action Committee
  Alexandria Black History Museum, 902 Wythe Street
  6-7 p.m.

• April 9 Alexandria Historical Restoration and Preservation Commission (AHRPC)
  Lloyd House, 220 N. Washington Street 
  8 a.m.-9:15 a.m.

• April 14 Alexandria-Caen Sister City Committee (ACSCC)
  City Hall, 301 King Street, Sister Cities Room 1101
  7-9 p.m.

• April 16 Alexandria Archaeological Commission (AAC)
  Lloyd House, 220 N. Washington Street 
  7-9 p.m.