APRIL 21–27, 2025
What's New
Celebrate Historic Preservation Month!
FEATURED EVENT
Don’t miss this very special Kick Off Event that includes a garden party and opportunity to tour inside the historic Murray-Dick-Fawcett House!
Murray-Dick-Fawcett House, 517 Prince Street
Sunday, May 4
2 -4:30 p.m.
$98 Individual Ticket, Sponsorship opportunities available
Purchase Tickets
Join Historic Alexandria for a garden party at Murray-Dick-Fawcett house, 517 Prince Street, celebrating the 98th birthday of Joe Reeder. Enjoy house tours, refreshments, and live music for a fundraiser benefiting Joe’s beloved Murray-Dick-Fawcett House. The Murray-Dick-Fawcett House, at 517 Prince Street, is one of the earliest homes in the city, and possibly the least altered 18th-century home in Northern Virginia. The property was acquired by the City of Alexandria in 2017, with the support of conservation trust funds. It is to be used in perpetuity as a historic site, vest-pocket park and garden, creating new open space in Old Town and preserving this nationally significant architectural and cultural resource for residents and visitors.
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.
Upcoming Events
View the Historic Alexandria Calendar
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
In Remembrance of Joseph McCoy, join the Alexandria Community Remembrance Project (ACRP) at Roberts Memorial United Methodist Church, the home church for the McCoy family, to hear an address by leading scholar Robert P. Jones. The New York Times Best Selling author of The Hidden Roots of White Supremacy and the Path to a Shared American Future, and President of the Public Religion Research Institute, Jones’ remarks will focus on the place we now find ourselves, “Between History and Hope.” We also look forward to hearing from Mayor Alyia Gaskins at this city-wide recognition and remembrance of the 1897 lynching of Alexandria native Joseph McCoy. Remarks will be followed by a book signing in the Fellowship Hall. Books will be available for purchase at the event.
Please note: Roberts Memorial United Methodist Church does not have a parking lot. Parking is available on side streets and behind Demaine Funeral Home on the corner of Gibbon and Washington Street.
Remembrance Activity: Sites of Reflection
Available now through April 27, 2025
City Hall and Cameron and Lee Streets
Free
Visit the old police station doors on the Fairfax Street side (100 N. Fairfax) of City Hall and listen to the story of the night Joseph McCoy was taken from a cell in the building. Then walk to the corner of Cameron and Lee Streets to hear the rest of the story and reflect on what society is capable of when the rule of law is ignored and people give in to fear. (Cellphones are needed, hover over the QR code to access two short audio recordings.)
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, enable you to sample five different whiskies from across Scotland, and provide 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. 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’s 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.
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.
Specialty Tour, Peeling Back the Layers
Gadsby’s Tavern Museum, 134 N. Royal Street
Saturdays in May (May 3, 10, 17, 24, and 31)
10 -11 a.m.
$15 per person/$12 for Historic Alexandria Member or Volunteer
Tickets can be purchased online.
Explore Gadsby’s Tavern Museum top to bottom, including spaces rarely opened to the public, and understand how the buildings have changed over time. Wear comfortable shoes and bring your camera! Please note this tour involves ascending and descending multiple sets of stairs, including into the rarely on view fourth floor!
Preservation Tours: Lost Buildings of Alexandria-The Waterfront
Carlyle House, 121 N. Fairfax Street
Saturdays in May (3rd, 17th, 24th, & 31st) 10am-12pm
$20
Tickets can be purchased online.
In honor of National Preservation Month, join Carlyle House and Lee-Fendall House on a tour of “Lost Alexandria.” Explore parts of the historic neighborhood of Fishtown and what is now Founder’s Park. Learn why these buildings were not preserved.
Tours begin at Carlyle House, 121 N. Fairfax Street. This tour includes walking over many city blocks. Preservation Tours will take place at the same time and place every Saturday in the month of May. Walking shoes required, bottled water suggested. Held rain or shine. Tickets are required for all tours.
Carlyle House Family Fun Day - Garden Gathering
Carlyle House, 121 N. Fairfax Street
Saturday, May 3 (First Saturday of the month from April – November)
12 -3 p.m.
Free
Come join 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.
Wine & Art Night
Lee-Fendall House Museum & Garden, 614 Oronoco Street
Saturday, May 3
7-10 p.m.
$75, $125 VIP Admission
Purchase tickets.
The Lee-Fendall House Museum & Garden invites you to an enchanting evening of fine wine, captivating art, and delightful company at Wine & Art Night, the museum's premier Spring fundraiser. All proceeds from Wine & Art Night directly support the Lee-Fendall House as we preserve and share nearly 200 years of local history through the stories of people who lived and worked on the property from 1785 to 1972. Come enjoy wine tastings, art showcases, a silent auction, live music, and more!
Featured wineries: Slater Run Vineyards (Upperville, VA) & Prince Michel Vineyard & Winery (Leon, VA)
Featured artists: Barbara Cooper (paintings), Candace Stribling (jewelry), Barbara Nowak (ceramics) & Jenny Nordstrom (photography)
With your ticket, you will receive a special Lee-Fendall wine glass and a tasting passport, allowing you to enjoy a tasting from each winery. Additional glasses and bottles of wine will be available for purchase. General admission is $75 and VIP admission is $125. VIP tickets include early entry for a special reception featuring an exclusive tasting from Wine Gallery 108, a photography session, early access to the silent auction, and time to enjoy the garden in the glow of a Spring evening.
This event is for guests 21 and over only. All attendees will be required to show a valid ID before entering.
Specialty Tour: A Magical Apothecary
Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum, 105-107 South Fairfax Street
Sunday, May 4
11a.m. - noon
$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.
Story Time for Little Historians
Alexandria Black History Museum, 902 Wythe Street
Saturday, May 10
10 - 10:45 a.m.
Free
Designed for children ages 4-8, this event introduces young learners to African and African American culture through stories and songs.
Specialty Tour: Fort Ward Museum & Historic Site
Fort Ward Museum & Historic Site, 4301 West Braddock Rd.
Saturday, May 17
10 -11a.m. (check-in opens at 9:45 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 earthwork fort. Please note this tour involves walking on outdoor paths and takes place rain or shine.
Concert in the Garden - Armato/De Sapio Duo
Carlyle House, 121 N. Fairfax Street
Saturday, May 17
2 p.m.
Free ($5 donation suggested)
Join the Armato/De Sapio Duo for a delightful al fresco concert of rarely performed music for violin and guitar. Enjoy works by Paganini, Margola, Giuliani, Rodrigo, and more in the idyllic surroundings of Carlyle House--music that is entertaining, elegant, and easygoing. Concert admission is free, $5 donation suggested. All donations go towards Carlyle Garden care. Lemonade will also be available for sale as part of this fundraiser.
Specialty Tour: Poisons at the Apothecary Museum
Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum, 105-107 South Fairfax Street
Sunday, May 25
11a.m. -12p.m.
$15, $12 Historic Alexandria members
Purchase tickets.
Come explore the sinister side of medicine on the Apothecary Museum's Poisons Tour. This one-hour tour explores several different types of poisons, their historic uses at the Apothecary, and what we know today. Recommended for ages 18 and up. Please arrive between 10:45-11a.m. as the doors will be locked when the tour begins at 11 a.m.
From Battlefield to Bedside: Alexandria's Civil War Medical History Exhibition
Lee-Fendall House Museum & Garden, 614 Oronoco Street
On display at Lee-Fendall through Sunday, August 31
Admission into the exhibit is included with general admission.
Lee-Fendall's newest exhibit, From Battlefield to Bedside focuses on Alexandria's pivotal role in the medical history of the Civil War, highlighting its transformation from a Southern port town to a strategic military hub to an epicenter of care for both Union and Confederate soldiers. Through a compelling collection of visual imagery, maps, and artifacts, this exhibit invites you to reflect on the resilience of those who provided care amidst the devastation of war, the legacy of Alexandria's medical contributions, and the experiences of those confined to the city's hospital beds.
Yoga on the Magnolia Terrace-Happy Hour
Carlyle’s Magnolia Terrace, 121 N. Fairfax Street
Last Thursday of the month May-September (May 29th, June 26th, Jul 31st, Aug 28th, & Sept 25th)
6pm-7:30pm
$20
Purchase tickets.
Join our yoga instructor for an hour-long Yoga class on Carlyle’s Magnolia Terrace. Afterwards, enjoy a mocktail with yoga participants and staff. Mocktails will change based on the month and will be announced on our social media! Yoga Happy Hours are a fundraiser for new exhibit cases in the museum and sponsored by the Friends of Carlyle House.
Please bring water, a towel, and a yoga mat. Wear comfortable yoga wear. Please note that the terrace is bricked so please bring a thicker mat or double up with an extra mat or towel. Class may be canceled due to inclement weather, you will receive an email if class is canceled.
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
Alexandria Archaeology Museum
Tuesdays–Fridays, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m., Saturdays, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m., Sundays, 1 – 5 p.m.
Archaeology Museum is closed on April 20.
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, May 17, 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
On April 24, 1940, the Robert Robinson Library opened its doors to the African American community, just eight months after one of America's first “sit-in” demonstrations took place at the segregated Alexandria Library on Queen Street. The library was named after Robert H. Robinson, a former slave who became a pastor at a church on South Washington Street known today as Roberts Memorial United Methodist Church. The old Robinson Library building now houses the Alexandria Black History Museum. The present-day Barrett Branch Library, originally called Alexandria Library, was built as a public facility in 1937 but was only available to whites. In response to this inequality, young attorney Samuel Tucker prepared a select group of African American men for a deliberate act of civil disobedience. On Friday, August 21, 1939, patrons and staff at the library were shocked when several young African American men entered the building, took a seat, and began to read quietly. Police were called and the men soon found themselves charged with disorderly conduct. Tucker’s defense of the men planned to legally challenge the city on the grounds that all citizens were entitled to equal access to public facilities and services. However, the city government quickly negotiated a settlement with other leaders of the city’s African American community to construct a “separate but equal” library in the Parker-Gray neighborhood. Furious, Tucker refused to accept a card at the new “separate but equal” library, insisting that people of color be allowed to use any public facilities and resources paid for with their tax dollars.
Upcoming Commission and Committee Events
Commissions Supporting Historic Alexandria
April 21 George Washington Birthday Celebration Committee
Lloyd House, 220 N. Washington Street
7 p.m.April 21 Public Records Advisory Commission (PRAC)
Archives and Records Center, 801 S. Payne Street
7:30 p.m.April 30 The Schools & Libraries Action Committee
Alexandria Black History Museum, 902 Wythe Street
6 p.m.May 12 Alexandria-Caen Sister City Committee (ACSCC)
City Hall, 301 King Street, Sister Cities Room 1101
7-9 p.m.May 14 Alexandria Historical Restoration and Preservation Commission
Alexandria History Museum at The Lyceum, 201 South Washington Street
8-9:15 a.m.May 14 Steering Committee of the Alexandria Community Remembrance Project
Alexandria Black History Museum, 902 Wythe Street
5:30 p.m.