march 31–April 6, 2025

What's New

Tavern Games Night - Remember the Ladies!

FEATURED EVENT

Tavern Games Night – Remember the Ladies!
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.  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. 

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.

Support the Freedom House Interior Restoration this Spring2ACTion

The Freedom House Museum tells one of Alexandria’s most difficult and important stories. At 1315 Duke Street, thousands of Black men, women, and children were trafficked into enslavement. Today, this site stands as a place of truth and remembrance. Your gift through Spring2ACTion will help us begin to plan the interior restoration of the building and new exhibits. Early giving has begun, and the big day is April 9. Donate online here https://www.spring2action.org/p2p/406641/historicalexandria

Upcoming Events

View the Historic Alexandria Calendar                                                                                                                                                      

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.

“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.

Carlyle House Family Fun Day-Poetry Palooza
Carlyle House, 121 N. Fairfax Street
Saturday, April 5
12-3 p.m. (first Saturday of the month from April - November)
Free
More information

Read and craft with your friends on the Carlyle House Magnolia Terrace for Family Fun Day on the first Saturday of the month from April-November! From 12-3, you can sit in on story time that starts at the top of the hour and participate in crafts and other activities that relate to the theme of the month. This program is for all ages, though some of the crafts might be challenging for guests under 4. There is no fee to join this program, but donations are encouraged.

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. at this moving event.

Carlyle House Book Club-Braddock’s Defeat
Carlyle House, 121 N. Fairfax Street
Wednesday, April 9
10-11:30 a.m.
Free
Register online here. 

Join the Carlyle House Book Club as we discuss David Preston’s Braddock's Defeat as part of our commemoration of the 270th anniversary of General Braddock’s Grandest Congress. Admission is free but we ask all participants to register so we know which space we will be using. $5 suggested donation at the door. More information online here.  

Link to Register: http://apm.activecommunities.com/novaparks/Activity_Search/8906

Beyond the Battlefield: A Civil War Walking Tour of Alexandria
Starting Location: Lee-Fendall House Museum & Garden
614 Oronoco Street
Saturday, April 12
10-11:30 a.m.
$15, Free for museum members
Purchase tickets.

This walking tour shares the stories of soldiers, citizens, and self-liberated African Americans in Civil War Alexandria. It covers the military occupation, the conversion of public and private buildings into hospitals, and emancipation. 

Tickets must be purchased in advance. The tour is limited to 12 participants and lasts approximately an hour and a half. Walking tours take place rain or shine, so please wear appropriate shoes and clothing. For more information, please call 703-548-1789 or e-mail contact@leefendallhouse.org. 

The “Grandest Congress” : The French and Indian War in Alexandria
Carlyle House, 121 N. Fairfax Street
Saturday, April 12
12-4 p.m.
Free
More information online 

Visit us on April 12th as we commemorate the 270th anniversary of the French and Indian War. John Carlyle’s home was host to General Edward Braddock and five of the Royal Governors in April 1755. Learn about what happened at that meeting and how that affected the future of the 13 colonies. Living historians and hands-on activities will be available for visitors of all ages.  Admission is free, but a $5 donation is suggested.

Girl Scout Day: The French and Indian War in Alexandria
Carlyle House, 121 N. Fairfax Street
Saturday, April 12
12-4 p.m.
$12 per scout, $6 per tagalong (non-Girl Scout siblings), chaperones free.
More information online 

Learn about the French and Indian War through visiting Carlyle House during our commemoration of General Braddock’s meeting in 1755. Scouts will complete activities that will help them earn a variety of Scout badges including: Daisies: Good Neighbor, Brownies: Celebrating Community, and  Juniors: Detectives & Playing the Past.

Program is nonrefundable and will be held rain or shine.

Scouts should plan to be onsite for 1.5-2 hours. They do not have to show up at 12pm. The program ends at 4pm so Scout groups must be here by 3pm to complete all activities.

To register and pay for this special program, scout leaders should call 703-549-2997. 

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.

In Remembrance of Joseph McCoy, 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, April 19, 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

The popularity of moving pictures reached fever pitch in Alexandria during 1908.  During the last week of March in that year, the Alexandria Amusement Co. at 426 King Street featured The New Passion Play, a one-hour film priced at 10 cents with live religious music.  A block away, at the large Opera House on the corner of King & Pitt Streets, The Metropolitan Moving Picture Company featured changing one-hour “pantomimes ... of a high order,” with live singing for just five cents.  On March 31, the City Engineer served an order to the Elks Club to stop work on a wood frame motion picture screen being constructed at their Prince Street site without a permit.  In response, a number of City Councilmen quickly vowed to sign a paper authorizing the work to continue.

Upcoming Commission and Committee Events

Commissions Supporting Historic Alexandria

• 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 Sister City Committee - Dundee and Helsingborg
  City Hall, 301 King Street, City Hall Conference Room 1900
  7-8:30 p.m.

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

• April 15 Historic Alexandria Resources Commission (HARC)
  Lloyd House, 220 N. Washington Street
  7-9 p.m.

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

• April 21 Public Records Advisory Commission (PRAC)
  Archives and Records Center, 801 S. Payne Street 
  7:30 p.m.