For Immediate Release: March 27, 2024

Saturday, April 6
1 – 1:30 p.m.
Free
Robinson Landing Gallery
Corner of the Strand and Pioneer Mill Way

Historic Alexandria is thrilled to announce the grand opening of  a new windowfront exhibit from Alexandria Archaeology, Buried Ships of Robinson Landing, set to take place on Saturday, April 6, from 1:00 to 1:30 p.m. at the Robinson Landing Gallery, located at the corner of the Strand and Pioneer Mill Way. The event is free and open to the public.

The new exhibit features scale models of three 18th century vessel remnants excavated by archaeologists in 2018 on the same block as the exhibit. The ribbon cutting for the exhibit will include remarks from City officials and archaeologists.

Through an exciting partnership with the Robinson Landing Property Owners Association, Alexandria Archaeology has the unique opportunity to shine a light on this site’s history. The innovative scale models show what these ship remnants would have looked like in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Archaeologists use these digital and physical models to compare ship construction and to answer questions about the age and use of the vessels. This exhibit is designed to be viewed from the sidewalk day and evening through the end of the year.

"We are excited to present the 'Buried Ships of Robinson Landing' exhibit to the community," said Eleanor Breen, City Archaeologist. "This collaboration with the Robinson Landing Property Owners Association allows us to bring history to life in a tangible and accessible way, fostering a deeper understanding of our shared maritime heritage."

This event serves as part of the kickoff for the City of Alexandria's 275th Anniversary, which will include a six-month celebration. Join us as we mark this significant milestone and embark on the next chapter in Alexandria’s vibrant history.

Don't miss this chance to witness history firsthand at the "Buried Ships of Robinson Landing" windowfront exhibit ribbon cutting ceremony. Join us on April 6 to celebrate the unveiling of this captivating display.

Visit alexandriava.gov/archaeology for more information or call Alexandria Archaeology at 703.746.4399.

For reasonable disability accommodation, contact emma.richardson@alexandriava.gov or call 703.746.4399, Virginia Relay 711.

For inquiries from the news media only, contact the Office of Communications & Public Information at newsroom@alexandriava.gov or 703.746.3969. 

Alexandria at 275: Connecting to our past to define a brighter future.
Since its 1749 founding, the historic city of Alexandria has played a major role in our nation’s story and reflected its progress toward inclusivity. Join us at events from April through September as we mark Alexandria's 275th anniversary and embark on the next chapter in our city’s vibrant history at alexandriava.gov/ALX275.

About the Office of Historic Alexandria
The Office of Historic Alexandria preserves and shares the history of the City of Alexandria with eight museums, historic sites, archives, archaeology, tours, exhibits and public programs. Through powerful storytelling and confronting the City’s past, Historic Alexandria enriches the present and inspires the future. We enhance the quality of life for residents and visitors and serves as a partner in the City’s equity and inclusion initiatives. For more information, visit alexandriava.gov/Historic

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This news release is available at Alexandriava.gov/go/5724.