Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum

The Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum was a family business founded in 1792 and operated in this location from 1805 until 1933. It represents one of Alexandria's oldest continuously run businesses that combined retailing, wholesaling, and manufacturing.
Page updated on June 5, 2025 at 10:37 AM
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The Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum

What is the Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum and how did it become a museum? This short video covers the basics.

The Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum boasts a vast collection of herbal botanicals, hand-blown glass, and medical equipment.  It also has a spectacular collection of archival materials, including journals, prescription and formula books, ledgers, orders and invoices. The museum is a National Historic Landmark.

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Visit the Apothecary Museum

Visitors at the Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum

Plan Your Visit

The museum's summer hours are Wednesdays - Fridays 11 a.m. - 4 p.m., Saturdays 11 a.m. - 5 p.m., and Sundays - Mondays 1 - 5 p.m. This page has admission information, tour options, and directions to assist in planning your visit.

Learn More about the Apothecary

An etching of the buildings on S. Fairfax Street from the E.S. Leadbeater letterhead

History of the Apothecary

Learn about the Apothecary, the Stablers, the Leadbeaters, and the Museum.

Historic Alexandria Educational Resources

Educational Resources

Resources for students and educators to use at home.

Leadbeater letterhead with engraving of Wholesale Druggists buildings.

Archival Collection

Search the Museum’s Archival Collection, comprised of the letters, invoices, account books, and ledgers of the apothecary and pharmacy business owned by the Stablers and Leadbeater families from 1792-1933.

Support the Apothecary Museum

Apothecary-Volunteers-Potter-Program

Volunteer

Learn more about volunteer opportunities with the Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum, a part of the Office of Historic Alexandria. 

Mortar and pestle at the Apothecary Museum

Mortar and Pestle Society

The Mortar and Pestle Society is the official friends group for the Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum. The Society’s support benefits a variety of projects such as object conservation, education programs, and other specific Museum needs.

Glass Bottles on display a the Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum

Make a Gift

Celebrate the power and impact of community philanthropy by supporting the Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum and Historic Alexandria!

More Information

Contact the Museum

Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum
105-107 South Fairfax Street
Alexandria, Virginia 22314
Phone: 703.746.3852

Contact the Museum (Alex311)  

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Mission Statement

The Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum, one of the oldest pharmacies in the nation, exists today to promote a greater understanding of historic public health issues, inspire people with the values of Quaker founder, Edward Stabler, and engage the visitor in an appreciation of our local and national history by sharing the story of this business and family’s profound effect on the community in such diverse areas as education and the abolition of slavery.

Programs and Events

Programs & Events at the Apothecary Museum

The Museum offers a number of public programs and special events throughout the year. From Harry Potter's birthday to special behind-the-scenes tours, the Apothecary has something for all ages and interests. 

For current dates of programs & events, check the calendar of events.

Educational Resources at the Apothecary Museum

Educational Resources at the Apothecary Museum

The Museum offers a variety on-site programs, from special tours to hands-on activities to lectures, throughout the year. The programs can be tailored to meet the specific needs of your group.