City of Alexandria, VA
01/06/2025 | Press release | Archived content
This Week in Historic Alexandria - January 6, 2025
january 6-12, 2025
Wishing you a spectacular New Year filled with boundless joy, incredible success, and endless opportunities! As we leap into 2025, we're excited to embark on this exhilarating journey together. In this week's newsletter, we're bringing you thrilling news and exclusive updates. From all of us here at Historic Alexandria, thank you for being such an integral part of our vibrant community. Let's make 2025 our best year yet! Here's to new beginnings, fresh inspirations, and a year overflowing with possibilities.
Happy New Year, dear subscribers! Let's dive into this fantastic year ahead with enthusiasm and excitement!
What's New
Annual Survey of Museum-Goers
What does history spark in you? Help Historic Alexandria answer this question! We want to know how we can support and engage residents and visitors in 2025 and beyond. Please share your thoughts by taking the Annual Survey of Museum-goers today.
Why this survey?
The Historic Alexandria Museums - Alexandria Archaeology, Alexandria Black History, Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary, Gadsby's Tavern Museum, Fort Ward Museum, the Alexandria History Museum at The Lyceum, Friendship Firehouse Museum, and the Freedom House Museum - care deeply about making the history we share with residents and visitors meaningful.
But we need your help! We want to better understand our guests' different needs and values so we can best serve you. Museums (like ours!) strive to encourage and expand learning while also addressing the challenges facing our society, and we need to hear your thoughts.
To do this, we are participating in a national survey of museum-goers, sponsored by the American Alliance of Museums. This survey will provide us with data from our participants, as well as from visitors to museums nationwide, helping us be more effective in the coming months and in the communities we serve.
The survey only takes about 9 minutes to complete, but in those 9 minutes you will help our team make better decisions for our future. And as a thank you there will be an opportunity for you to win one of ten $100 Visa gift cards! Simply go to https://survey.alchemer.com/s3/8056406/historicalexandria to get started.
Thank you in advance for your time and thoughts!
Meaningful Conversations: Protecting Immigration and Refugees
Join us Thursday, January 16, 2025, 7-9 p.m., as we focus on Protecting Refugees and Immigration at Alexandria's Black History Museum, 902 Wythe St., Alexandria, VA. This new series of Meaningful Conversations will focus on how exemplary local non-profits are working to improve and uplift our community and how their work relates to key principles for promoting racial and social justice and empowering all people to flourish and to act as protagonists in uplifting our community. Free!
Featured Panelist:
Archi Pyati is CEO of the Tahirih Justice Center, a national nonprofit that has served more than 35,000 immigrant women, girls, and other survivors of gender-based violence in its nearly 30 years. She is an attorney and advocate for human rights and has provided legal representation, researched and authored policy reports, trained front line service providers, testified before Congress, spoken with media, and managed small and large teams of experts. She worked at Human Rights First and Sanctuary for Families in New York City before coming to Tahirih in 2014.
Our meaningful conversations explore and celebrate the diversity of cultures and peoples in our area, address the attitudes and behaviors that still divide us, and seek remedies grounded in the recognition that we are one interconnected, interdependent human family. All are welcome!
Upcoming Events
View the Historic Alexandria Calendar
Story Time for Little Historians
Alexandria Black History Museum, 902 Wythe Street
Saturday, January 11
10 a.m.- 10:45 a.m.
Free
Dynamic storytellers use books written by and about African American people and other communities of color to engage with ages 5-8, then stay to learn about the principles of Kwanzaa. Kwanzaa workshop begins at 11 a.m.
Martin Luther King Jr. Poster Exhibition
On view in the Vola Lawson Lobby of City Hall, 301 King Street
Wednesday, January 15 - Friday, February 28
Free
The City of Alexandria honors the memory and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. with its annual Poster Exhibition and Program. Posters will be on view from Alexandria City Public School students in the Vola Lawson Lobby of City Hall from January 18, 2016 through February 29, 2016.
The Alexandria Black History Museum with the Office of Historic Alexandria sponsors an annual Student Poster Exhibition for Alexandria City Public School students, grades 2-5.
Sean Gavin and Josh Dukes in Concert at the Lyceum
Alexandria History Museum at The Lyceum, 201 S. Washington Street
Thursday, January 16
7:30 p.m.
$25, $10 under 18
Purchase tickets.
A master of the uilleann pipes, Irish flute, and tin whistle, Seán Gavin is one of the most highly regarded performers and teachers of traditional Irish music. He is the first musician born outside Ireland to win the prestigious Seán Ó Riada Gold medal, and the author of a popular tin whistle book published by Hal Leonard. Seán is the founder and director of the Irish Music Institute - a non-profit music school based in Southeast Michigan. With recordings, lectures, and performances around the globe to his credit, Seán is back in his native Detroit, where he continues to play, teach, and promote traditional Irish music.
Josh Dukes is an All Ireland champion accompanist and a highly sought after music teacher in the Baltimore/Washington D.C. area. A multi-instrumentalist whose talents embrace the ceili drums, guitar, bouzouki, bodhran, flute, and tin whistle. He has shared the stage with such renowned musicians as John Doyle, Paddy Keenan, Billy and Sean McComiskey, Brendan Mulvihill, Kevin Crawford, Zan McLeod, and Myron Bretholz. Josh lives in the greater D.C. Area with his wife and two daughters.
Tables of Conscience Book-Themed Dinners
Saturday, January 18
6-9 p.m.
Purchase tickets.
Back by Popular Demand! Tables of Conscience book-themed dinners to raise money for the 2025 scholarships in the names of Joseph McCoy and Benjamin Thomas. About a week before the dinner, those who reserved spots will receive an email with the name and address of the hosts. Please indicate at registration if you have any food allergies or strong preferences. Hosts will do their best to accommodate guest requests. Each reservation requires a $125 donation per person. The dinner's discussion book must be purchased separately from a local bookstore.
Book: Of Poetry and Protest: From Emmett Till to Trayvon Martin By Phil Cushway (Compiler), Michael Warr (Editor), Victoria Smith (Photographer)
Join ACRP members in what is sure to be a lively conversation about this compilation of African American poets and essayists that give voice to the Black experience in America. The anthology highlights Pulitzer Prize winning poets such as Rita Dove, Natasha Tretheway, Yusef Komunyakaa and Tracy Smith, Essayists include Rev. Dr. William Barber II and Jeannine Amber. Each one provides an artistic, incisive take on our culture and times. Reserve your tickets at The Alexandria Shop.
Outlandish Tour at the Apothecary Museum
Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum, 105-107 South Fairfax Street
Sunday, January 26 through Sunday, February 9
11 a.m. - 12 p.m.
$15, $12 Historic Alexandria members
Purchase tickets.
Celebrate the wrap of Outlander Season 7! Tour this historic apothecary and learn about a few of the herbal medicines features in Diana Gabaldon's Outlander series of novels from cascara to dauco seeds. The specialty tour also touches on the role of apothecaries and women in medicine in the 18th century. Recommended for ages 18 and up. Please arrive between 10:45 - 11a.m. as the museum is not open to the public until 1 p.m. and the doors will be locked when the tour begins. Please note the tour involves ascending and descending stairs.
Tavern Games Night
Gadsby's Tavern Museum, 134 N. Royal Street
Friday, January 31
7 p.m.
$10
Purchase tickets.
Tavern Games Night is back, this time with Old Town Soul as its theme. A $10 cover includes tavern games and a themed presentation with the crowd-favorite jeopardy game featuring Alexandria's Black History. Cash bar (non-alcoholic and alcoholic). Event takes place in the second floor ballroom. Due to its historic nature, the building does not have an elevator.
An Intimate Reception with General Washington
Historic Duvall House, 305 Cameron Street
Saturday, February 1
5:30 - 7:30 p.m.
$150
Purchase tickets.
Join General Washington at the beautiful and historic Duvall House, where he was feted by leading Alexandrians upon his triumphant return from the Revolutionary War in 1783. The General will share his most poignant memories of the war and answer questions about his life and times. Libations and heavy hors d'oeuvres will be served. All proceeds benefit the George Washington Birthday Celebration. For more information about the celebration, visit washingtonbirthday.com.
Specialty Tour: Hamilton's BFF & Frenemies
Gadsby's Tavern Museum, 134 N. Royal Street
Saturday, February 8
6:30 p.m.
$15, $12 Historic Alexandria members
Purchase tickets.
Inspired by the musical Hamilton, learn how the paths of Washington, Lafayette, Jefferson, Madison, and Burr all intersected with this local tavern. Includes discussion of the issues they faced and how their choices impacted local citizens. Please note tour involves ascending and descending stairs. Arrive no later than 5 minutes prior to tour time to check in. No need to print tickets--your name will be on a list after purchasing.
2025 George Washington Birthday Parade
Old Town Alexandria
Saturday, February 15
2-4 p.m.
In honor of the 250th anniversary of the Revolutionary War, the City of Alexandria is pleased to announce the 2025 parade's theme: "George Washington: America's Commander in Chief." View the parade route through Old Town Alexandria.
Parade registration is open, and participants can register a unit at an early bird rate of $75 through January 15. The parade relies on community support, with sponsorships and donations helping keep this tradition going each year.
Since 1801, Alexandria has commemorated Washington's legacy with a parade. This year, more than 1,000 participants are expected to march and perform along the historic route in Old Town Alexandria. The parade will showcase drum corps, color guards, bands, community and fraternal organizations, youth groups, local merchants, city dignitaries, and, of course, General George and Martha Washington.
Learn more and stay up to date on the parade and other celebration activities at washingtonbirthday.com.
Specialty Tour: A Magical Apothecary
Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum, 105-107 South Fairfax Street
Sunday, February 23 through Saturday, April 19
11 a.m. (10 a.m. on April 19)
$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.
Tables of Conscience Book-Themed Dinners
Saturday, March 1
6-9 p.m.
Purchase tickets.
Back by Popular Demand! Tables of Conscience book-themed dinners to raise money for the 2025 scholarships in the names of Joseph McCoy and Benjamin Thomas. About a week before the dinner, those who reserved spots will receive an email with the name and address of the hosts. Please indicate at registration if you have any food allergies or strong preferences. Hosts will do their best to accommodate guest requests. Each reservation requires a $125 donation per person; visit (https://www.alexandriava.gov/historic-alexandria/tables-of-conscience-fundraiser) for additional information on payment. The dinner's discussion book must be purchased separately from a local bookstore.
Book: How To Be An Antiracist, by Ibram X. Kendi: Historian and author Ibram X. Kendi explores how racist ideas had become so engrained in society that those who countered them were considered radical and extreme. By peeling back layers of enculturated racism, Kendi helps readers see what they may not have previously understood. Relying on history, science, law, and ethics, Kendi rouses awareness and takes readers past polarizing arguments toward forming a more just society. Reserve your tickets at The Alexandria Shop.
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.
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.
Freedom House is open on weekends only through early January. Group visits available by special appointment.
Friendship Firehouse Museum
January closed.
Gadsby's Tavern Museum
Thursdays & Fridays, 11 a.m. - 4 p.m., Saturdays, 11 a.m. - 5 p.m., Sundays, 1 - 5 p.m.
Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum
Wednesdays-Fridays, 11 a.m.- 4 p.m., Saturdays, 11 a.m. - 5 p.m., Sundays 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 [email protected] or call 703.746.4554, Virginia Relay 711.
This Week in Alexandria's History
On January 9, 1951, Alexandria officials announced the Alexandria National Guard armory on South Royal Street had been converted into a recreation center for both servicemen and Alexandria residents. Renovations to the building included game rooms, a photographic darkroom and an indoor gym.
Upcoming Commission and Committee Events
Commissions Supporting Historic Alexandria
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January 6 George Washington Birthday Celebration Committee
Via zoom, register online.
7 p.m. -
January 13 Sister Cities Committee Dundee and Helsingborg
Lloyd House, 220 N. Washington Street
7 p.m. -
January 13 Alexandria-Caen Sister City Committee
Sister Cities Conference Room, 1101, City Hall, 301 King Street
7-9 p.m. -
January 15 Alexandria Historical Restoration and Preservation Commission
Lloyd House, 220 N. Washington Street
8-9:15 a.m. -
January 15 Alexandria Archaeological Commission
Lloyd House, 220 N. Washington Street
7 p.m. -
January 21 Historic Alexandria Resources Commission
City Hall - Room 1900 (First Floor), 301 King Street
7-9 p.m. -
January 27 Public Records Advisory Commission
Archives and Records Center, 801 South Payne Street
7:30 p.m. -
January 29 Schools and Libraries Action Committee
Alexandria Black History Museum, 902 Wythe Street
6-8 p.m.