This Week in Historic Alexandria - April 13, 2026

april 13-19, 2026

What's New

FEATURED EVENT

ACRP Joseph McCoy Remembrance Event
Roberts Memorial United Methodist Church, 606 South Washington St.
Thursday, April 23
7-8:15 p.m. (Reception starts at 6:30 p.m.)
Free

In Remembrance of Joseph McCoy, the Alexandria Community Remembrance Project (ACRP) invites the public to an evening of reflection with Dr. Rodney Sadler at Roberts Memorial United Methodist Church on April 23, 2026, 129 years after McCoy's lynching in Alexandria.

The widely published Dr. Sadler plans to explore the historic use of violence by those invested with authority and power, with remarks titled, "Governed by Fear and Hate: The Tools of the Supremacist State."

Rev. Dr. Sadler heads up the Center for Social Justice and Reconciliation at Union Presbyterian Seminary in Charlotte, North Carolina, where he focuses on the nexus of race, faith, and politics. In addition to his writings, he hosts a national radio program called "Politics of Faith," a series of discussions called "Dangerous Dialogues," and he represents his district in the North Carolina State Legislature. He has a number of connections to the District and NOVA-he is a graduate of Howard University and has been a senior fellow at George Mason University's Center for World Religion, Diplomacy and Conflict Resolution.

Roberts Memorial United Methodist Church, one of the most historic Black churches in Alexandria, was the home church for the McCoy family. This will be the second time Roberts Memorial will host the Remembrance event. Parking is permitted at Demaine Funeral Home and as available on nearby streets.

Upcoming Events

View the Historic Alexandria Calendar

Traditional Music Concert Series
Séan Gavin & Caoimhín Ó Fearghail
Alexandria History Museum at The Lyceum, 201 S. Washington Street
Thursday, April 16
7 p.m.
$35
Purchase tickets.

Join us for what will be another great evening of traditional Irish music. music. Seán Gavin makes his third visit to our concert series!

Seán Gavin, is one of the most highly regarded Irish musicians of his generation. Master uilleann piper and flute player, he is the first and only musician born outside Ireland to win the prestigious Seán Ó Riada Gold Medal. His latest recording, The Boys of 25, with accordion maestro Colm Gannon "is a superb bit of pure drop music that stands tall on strength of Gavin and Gannon's musicianship.

Caoimhín Ó Fearghail (Kwee-veen) comes from An Rinn in the Waterford Gaeltacht. He received the TG4 Young Musician of the Year award and was chosen as Best Folk Instrumentalist at the RTÉ Radio 1 Folk Awards. His music is greatly influenced by that region as well as diverse players throughout Ireland. With a start on the tin-whistle at the age of eight, he has since mastered uilleann pipes, flute, guitar, and bouzouki, as well as being an accomplished singer and Irish speaker. He has many albums to his credit, and has toured worldwide with Caladh Nua, Danú, and others.

Conversational Tour: Women Were Always Here
Gadsby's Tavern Museum, 134 N Royal Street
Friday, April 17
5 - 6:30 p.m.
$15 per person, Historic Alexandria Members: $12/person
Purchase tickets. Only 4 tickets left!

Kick-off the weekend with a conversational tour focused on women's experiences in the past and today led by a member of the team for the new exhibit "Women in Business: We were always here." The tour will highlight the many women over the centuries associated with Gadsby's Tavern Museum and, through their stories, will spark conversations about political, economic, and social conditions for women both past and present. The ticket includes a tour, facilitated conversations, and access to the recently opened exhibit "Women in Business." Option to purchase water, soda, or locally crafted beer or hard cider available upon arrival.

Please note the event includes ascending and descending stairs in the historic tavern. Seating is available throughout.

Meet and Greet and Book Signing: The Librarian Who Didn't Like Books
Alexandria Black History Museum, 902 Wythe Street
Saturday, April 18
11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Free

On Saturday April 18th, join author Holly Ousley-Lavender, author of The Librarian Who Didn't Like Books. The event includes a moderated discussion, brief book reading and book signing. The discussion and book reading are geared toward children ages 2-10. This event is free and open to the public.

Holly Ousley-Lavender is a school librarian with 30 years' experience. Ousley-Lavender was a young child who dreaded reading and going to the library-until one day she saw a book with characters that looked like her. She was then able to make a connection that ignited her love of reading and sharing that love with children. Holly Ousley-Lavender states that her mission is to ensure that all children find a mirror image of themselves in books and experience the joy and empowerment that representation brings through the books that she writes.

Patrons attending the Meet and Greet receive complimentary admission to the Alexandria Black History Museum.

Alexandria Women's History Walk
221 King Street, in the garden of the Visitor's Center
Saturday, April 18
Noon - 2 p.m.
Free
Click here to RSVP.

Join Alexandria Celebrates Women (ACW) for a monthly 3-mile walking tour highlighting Alexandria's heroines of the past as the United States prepares to celebrate its 250th birthday, Alexandria Celebrates Women!

If you have wondered how women helped put our city on the map, now is your chance to learn about them. The 3-mile walking tour includes outdoor stops at historic sites associated with women, where ACW Vice President Gayle Converse will discuss Alexandrian's heroines of the past and the history of each site. Participants are welcome to join all or any portion of the walk.

ACW offers this tour will the third Saturday of the month throughout 2026 as part of America's 250th anniversary.

Carlyle House Historical Fiction Book Club
Carlyle House Historic Park, 121 N. Fairfax Street
Saturday, April 18
1-2 p.m.
Free
Learn More!

Do you love reading historic fiction? Join the Carlyle House staff quarterly for our free historical fiction book club. All books will be focused on 18th Century America and can be found at your local library or bookstore. This month discusses A Girl Called Samson by Amy Harmon.

Next book is both Agent 355 by Marie Benedict and 355: The Women of Washington's Spy Ring by Kit Sergeant, with the club meeting on July 18th.

The program is free, donations are welcome. Space is limited so we just ask that you call 703-549-2997 or email [email protected] to register.

Specialty Tour: Poisons at the Apothecary Museum
The Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum, 105-107 S Fairfax Street
Saturday, April 18
5:30 - 6:30 p.m.
$15 per person, Historic Alexandria Members: $12/person
Reserve tickets. Almost sold out!

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 adults.

Lantern Tours
Lee-Fendall House Museum & Garden, 614 Oronoco Street
Saturday, April 18
6 - 8 p.m.
$17.85 (includes a $2.85 fee)
Purchase Tickets

Take a tour of the historic Lee-Fendall House at night! A quieter, cozier experience in Old Town Alexandria, this tour covers the history of the house and those who lived here from 1785 to 1972. You will be led through the first and second floors by prominent historic Alexandrian, E.E. Downham. Learn our history through the man who was Mayor of Alexandria from 1887 through 1891!

The lantern tours are recommended for ages 12+. Each tour time is limited to 12 people.

GTMS Spring Fling 2026!
Celebrating 250 Years of American Independence
Gadsby's Tavern Museum, 134 N Royal Street
Saturday, April 18
7 - 10 p.m.
$125 per person, sponsorship opportunities available!
Purchase tickets.

Please join Gadsby's Tavern Museum Society (GTMS) for an evening of music, community, and history! This year, the Gadsby's Tavern Museum Society's signature fundraiser coincides with America's 250th anniversary. Join GTMS for a fun evening and help preserve the spirit of the Tavern as we celebrate America's 250th birthday!

Includes swinging music, open bar, appetizers, silent auction, and meet the neighbors. Cocktail attire.

Carlyle House: Self Guided Sundays
Carlyle House Historic Park, 121 N. Fairfax Street
Sunday, April 19
Noon - 3 p.m.
$5 per person (children 5 and under are free)
Learn More!

On the third Sunday of every month, explore the first floor of Carlyle House at your own pace. Docents will be available throughout the house if you have questions. Tickets can only be purchased the day of in the museum shop.

Alexandria Historical Society Announces 2026 History Awards Ceremony Featuring Dr. Peter Henriques
Alexandria History Museum at The Lyceum, 201 S. Washington Street
Wednesday, April 22
7 p.m. (Doors will open at 6:30 p.m., and light refreshments will be available)
The event is free and open to the public.
Learn More!

The Alexandria Historical Society (AHS) will host its annual History Awards Ceremony on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, at 7 p.m. at The Lyceum. The event is free and open to the public.

This year's program will feature keynote speaker Dr. Peter Henriques, Professor Emeritus of History at George Mason University, and will honor recipients of the T. Michael Miller Alexandria History Award, the AHS Special Merit Award, and the Alexandria High School History Awards.

For more than 40 years, the Alexandria Historical Society has honored individuals and students who have made noteworthy contributions to the preservation, research, and interpretation of Alexandria's historic heritage. This year's ceremony will once again celebrate outstanding achievement in local history and historical scholarship.

Yoga on the Magnolia Terrace
Carlyle House Historic Park, 121 N. Fairfax Street
April 25th - October 22nd
Saturdays: 9 a.m. & 10:15 a.m.
Tuesdays & Thursdays: 6 p.m.
$10 a class
Purchase Tickets

Join our friends at Carlyle House for an hour long Yoga Class on Carlyle House's Magnolia Terrace. A gentle flow yoga class. We will build heat with sun salutations then progress to balance, deep stretching and finally relaxation. Please bring water, a towel, and a yoga mat. Wear comfortable yoga wear.

Starting on April 25th, classes will be held on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6pm and Saturdays at 9am and 10:15am. Class may be canceled due to inclement weather, you will receive an email if class is canceled. Tickets are non-refundable unless class is cancelled by the museum.

Having trouble registering? Please call 703-549-2997.

Beyond the Battlefield: A Civil War Walking Tour of Alexandria
Lee-Fendall House Museum & Garden, 614 Oronoco Street
Saturday, April 25
10 - 11:30 a.m.
$17.85 (includes a $2.85 fee)
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.

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. Members of Lee-Fendall House are free but must call or email to make a reservation (703) 548-1789 or [email protected].

Discovering Alexandria Architecture Walking Tour
Carlyle House Historic Park, 121 N. Fairfax Street
Saturday, April 25
10 a.m.
$20 per person
Purchase Tickets

Alexandria has grown from a small town in the 18th century to a bustling small city in the 21st century. Join us for a tour of Alexandria as we explore looking at the various Architecture styles that adorn the city streets and make it one of the best places to live and work.

Reservations are required as space is limited. Please wear comfortable shoes for this 1.5 hour guided tour. The tour is held rain or shine unless there is severe weather.

Having trouble registering? Please call 703-549-2997 or email [email protected].

Shall Not Be Denied: Alexandria Women and the Fight for the Ballot
Lee-Fendall House Museum & Garden, 614 Oronoco Street
Saturday, April 25
2 p.m.
$17.85 (includes a $2.85 fee)
Purchase Tickets

This lecture examines Alexandria women's contributions to the suffrage movement through biographical profiles, local activism, and the history of key organizations. The talk will explore the lives and work of Alexandria women who organized, advocated, and mobilized for the vote, with particular attention to the Equal Suffrage League of Virginia and the Virginia League of Women Voters. By situating individual stories within broader local, state, and national efforts, this lecture reveals how Alexandria women helped shape the strategies and successes of the suffrage movement.

Building on the Shall Not Be Denied exhibition currently on display at the Lee-Fendall House Museum through May 31st, this lecture expands on the themes introduced in the gallery. While the exhibition offers an overview of Alexandria women's suffrage work, this lecture provides a deeper exploration of the people, organizations, and historical context behind the movement, drawing on additional research, archival materials, and personal narratives not fully explored in the exhibit.

American Revolution Bingo
Carlyle House Historic Park, 121 N. Fairfax Street
Saturday, April 25
6-7:30 p.m.
$12 per person
Purchase Tickets

Join us for a fun evening of Bingo a la American Revolution theme! Not only will we have bingo themes based on historic figures but there will be rounds on the American Revolution in Pop Culture. Prizes will be given out to each round's winner. Ticket price includes 1 mocktail and small bites. Additional mocktails may be purchased onsite. Tickets are non-refundable unless the program is cancelled by the museum.

Having trouble registering? Please call 703-549-2997 or email [email protected]

Specialty Tour: A Magical Apothecary
The Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum, 105-107 S Fairfax Street
Sunday, April 26
11 a.m. - Noon
$15 per person, Historic Alexandria Members: $12/person
Reserve 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. Children must be accompanied by a ticket-holding adult.

"From Enslavement to Justice: How African Americans Forced Change in Alexandria" A Walking Tour of the Wilkes Street Cemetery Complex
Old Presbyterian Meeting House Dismantling Racism Team
Corner of Wilkes Street and Hamilton Avenue (1475-1501 Wilkes Street)
Sunday, April 26
2 - 3:30 p.m.
Free and open to the public - Registration required
Register here.

Join the Old Presbyterian Meeting House Dismantling Racism Team for a walking tour of Alexandria's historic Wilkes Street Cemetery Complex titled "From Enslavement to Justice: How African Americans Forced Change in Alexandria."

This tour examines how African Americans - both enslaved and free - forced legal, social, and moral change in Alexandria, from slavery and segregation to emancipation, military service, burial rights, and the long struggle for justice and recognition. Using burial grounds as primary historical sources, the tour highlights resistance, resilience, and reform across generations.

The tour will be led by David Heiby, public historian, member of Old Presbyterian Meeting House, and Superintendent of the Presbyterian Cemetery & Columbarium. David serves on the boards of the Alexandria Historical Society and the Virginia Trust for Historic Preservation (which owns and operates the Lee-Fendall House Museum & Garden), and regularly presents lectures and tours on Alexandria's history.

Meet at the corner of Wilkes Street and Hamilton Avenue. The meeting point address is 1475-1501 Wilkes Street, Alexandria, Virginia. The tour covers approximately one mile across several cemeteries within the Wilkes Street Cemetery Complex. Please wear good walking shoes. Limited bathroom access. Tour proceeds rain or shine except in extreme weather.

The Women of Lee-Fendall
Lee-Fendall House Museum & Garden, 614 Oronoco Street
Wednesday, April 29
11 a..m.- Noon
$17.85 (includes a $2.85 fee)
Purchase Tickets

This special house tour will take you through the lives of some of the women who lived and worked in the Lee-Fendall House over the years as a private home and even when it became a museum in 1974. Learn about their struggles and achievements as women, wives, educators, workers, mothers, performers, and activists.

Whisky Tasting at the Lyceum - Tickets Now Available
Alexandria History Museum at The Lyceum
Saturday, May 2
6 - 8 p.m.
Early bird general admission tickets are $65 through April 15 and $75 beginning April 16. Only 36 general admission tickets left!
Early bird VIP tickets are $90 through April 15 and $100 beginning April 16. Only 2 VIP tickets left!
VIP tickets are listed as a separate event on Alexandriava.gov/Shop.
Purchase tickets

The City of Alexandria's Sister Cities Committee invites whisky lovers and curious sippers alike to its annual signature event. Guests will enjoy a guided tasting across the whisky regions of Scotland, gaining insights into the craftsmanship and culture behind each pour. 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 receive two additional exclusive samples of rare whiskies. All attendees will take home a souvenir Glencairn glass, perfect for continuing their whisky journey.

General admission and VIP tickets include hors d'oeuvres. Wine and non-alcoholic beverages will be available for non-whisky drinkers. A raffle will also be held with prizes, with tickets available for cash purchase at the event. Minimum age: 21. All proceeds support the Alexandria Sister Cities Committee and its mission to support the educational and cultural exchanges between Alexandria, VA and her sister cities of Dundee, Scotland and Helsingborg, Sweden.

Specialty Tour: Peeling Back the Layers-Behind the Scenes
Gadsby's Tavern Museum, 134 N Royal Street
Saturdays - May 2, 9, 16, 23, 30
11 a.m.
$15 per person, Historic Alexandria Members: $12/person
Purchase tickets.

May is Preservation Month! 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, complete with historic graffiti!

Support Historic Alexandria

Your gift fuels preservation, education, and programs that bring Alexandria's past to life. Donations, special revenue, and grants make it possible to expand educational programs, conserve treasured collections, and support our dedicated staff. Your gift today helps preserve Alexandria's history for generations to come.

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
Thursdays & Fridays, 11 a.m. - 4 p.m., Saturdays, 11 a.m. - 5 p.m., Sundays, 1 - 5 p.m.

Friendship Firehouse Museum
Next open on Saturday, May 16, 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 through 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.

Virginia 250 Passport

Historic Alexandria is proud to join 70 premier historic destinations across Virginia in the launch of the Virginia 250 Passport, a first-of-its-kind statewide tourism journey celebrating America's 250th. Featured Alexandria museums include Gadsby's Tavern Museum, the Alexandria History Museum at The Lyceum, and the Alexandria Black History Museum. The passport offers prizes and discounts to encourage families to explore Virginia's rich history together. Beginning November 11, 2025, free passports will be available at major historic sites and Virginia Welcome Centers. Learn more at VirginiaHistory.org/250Passport.

New Exhibit: Women in Business: We Were Always Here - Now open

Gadsby's Tavern Museum, 134 N Royal Street
Visit the Historic Alexandria website or see below for museum hours.
Included with cost of admission
Adults: $5, Children (ages 5-12): $3, Children four and under are free with a paying adult. Admission is free for City of Alexandria residents.

Gadsby's new exhibit featuring Hannah Griffith, a female coffeehouse operator at this location, is now open! The exhibit is included in regular admission.

Visitors will be able to see primary sources up close to explore how women appear (and don't) in the historical record in the 18th century. In addition to Hannah's story, visitors will learn about the female business owners on the block around City Hall today, highlighting how women continue to be an important part of Alexandria's business community. All of the women-owned businesses facing City Hall are included in this exhibit-14 total owned by 17 women!

The exhibit will be up through March 2027.

Exhibit: "Disease and the Apothecary" - Now open

Explore how epidemics like Smallpox, Yellow Fever, and Influenza shaped Alexandria's past and how science and public health saved lives. Included with admission. Free for Alexandria residents! The new exhibit is also available online.

Exhibit: Union Navy Exhibition at Fort Ward Museum

A new exhibition, "Aboard Ship with the Jack-Tars of the Union Navy," opened October 2 at the City of Alexandria's Fort Ward Museum. The exhibit focuses on the U.S. Navy during the Civil War and is being held in recognition of the 250th anniversary of the founding of the U.S. Navy on October 13, 1775. The exhibition will continue through 2026. The exhibit, with pictures of select objects, is also available online.

Explore with Ease - The New Museum Mobility Guide

Historic Alexandria and the Department of Transportation & Environmental Services (T&ES) have launched a colorful, easy-to-use map and guide connecting all of Alexandria's museums via walking, biking, and transit. The guide also acts as a passport-visit every site and earn a prize! Available at museums, rec centers, public libraries, and more.

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

More from This Day in History

On April 15, 1847, General Tom Thumb appeared at The Lyceum. Then only nine-years-old and born in Bridgeport, CT with the name Charles Sherwood Stratton, the youngster was advertised by circus showman P.T. Barnum as much older and brought from Europe "at great expense." Measuring only 25 inches tall and weighing only 15 pounds, "The Man in Miniature" performed comical acts based on Napoleon Bonaparte, a Scottish Highlander, and other characters as part of his routine. After appearing in Alexandria, he performed in Richmond the same week.

Upcoming Commission and Committee Events

Commissions Supporting Historic Alexandria

• April 13 Alexandria Caen Sister Cities Committee (ACSCC)
  Lloyd House, 220 N. Washington Street
  7-9 p.m.

• April 13 Alexandria Archaeological Commission Subcommittee
  Virtual only meeting. For those interested in attending, please email [email protected] for the link
  7-9 p.m.

• April 13 Committee of Inquiry's Research Team
  Alexandria Black History Museum, 902 Wythe Street
  7 p.m.

• April 15 Alexandria Archaeological Commission
  Lloyd House, 220 N. Washington Street
  7-9 p.m.

• April 18 Sister Cities Committee Swedish Coffee Subcommittee
  La Madeleine, 500 King Street
  11 a.m.

• April 20 George Washington Birthday Celebration Committee (GWBCC)
  Lloyd House, 220 N. Washington Street
  7-8:30 p.m.

• April 21 Historic Alexandria Resources Commission
  Lloyd House, 220 N. Washington Street
  7-9 p.m.

• April 27 Alexandria Sister Cities Committee
  Lloyd House, 220 N. Washington Street
  7-8:30 p.m.