This Week in Historic Alexandria - October 19, 2026

october 19-25, 2026

What's New

FEATURED EVENT

Grown-Up Field Trip: Who Gets Remembered

Gadsby's Tavern Museum, 134 N. Royal Street
Saturday, November 7
6 p.m.
$15 / person; $12 for Historic Alexandria Members
Purchase Tickets

Why do we remember some people from history while others are forgotten? Step inside Gadsby's Tavern Museum for an interactive exploration of the people whose stories have been preserved-and those whose stories are harder to find. Through historic spaces and primary sources, we'll question who gets remembered, who gets left out, and how those choices shape our understanding of the past. This program is part of Historic Alexandria's monthly Grown-Up Field Trip series, where adults can feed their curiosity by learning more about Alexandria's history together.

Future Grown-Up Field Trips include:
-Dec. 18, 6:30-8 p.m.: Citizen Firefighter with Friendship Firehouse Museum

Upcoming Events

View the Historic Alexandria Calendar

Lecture: Ruins and Resilience: Destruction and Preservation in Charleston's Past
The Alexandria History Museum at The Lyceum, 201 South Washington Street
Monday, October 19
7 p.m. light refreshments, 7:30 p.m. lecture
Suggested contribution for guests attending a one-time lecture is $10
Please register with [email protected].

For Charleston, South Carolina, history is, in many ways, one of loss. Although its buildings, neighborhoods, objects, and even people have each been severely affected by numerous calamities, the community withholds a persistent determination to preserve what remains. This presentation traces how destruction has repeatedly reshaped the city's physical and emotional landscape and highlights its ongoing preservation efforts. More information available at AlexandriaAssociation.org.

J. Grahame Long is the Chief Curator for the Tidewater and Big Bend Foundation directing the research, interpretation, collections acquisition, and management for the Foundation's nine historic properties in New Kent County and the Virginia Tidewater. Previously, he served Colonial Williamsburg as Executive Director of Collections & Deputy Chief Curator, was Director of Museums for Historic Charleston Foundation and Chief Curator for the Charleston Museum. Maintaining his South Carolina ties, Grahame still volunteers for the archives and special collections at The Citadel, and remains an active member of The German Friendly Society and The Washington Light Infantry. His books include Dueling in Charleston: Violence Refined in the Holy City (2012); Stolen Charleston: The Spoils of War (2014); and Lost Charleston (2019).

Yoga on the Magnolia Terrace
Carlyle House Historic Park, 121 N. Fairfax Street
Thursday, October 22
9 a.m. & 10:15 a.m.
$10 a class
Purchase Tickets

Join our friends at Carlyle House for an hour-long gentle flow Yoga Class on Carlyle House's Magnolia Terrace. Please bring water, a towel, and a yoga mat. Wear comfortable yoga wear. Registered participants will receive an email if class is canceled due to inclement weather.

1920s Party: American Girl Celebration
Carlyle House Historic Park, 121 N. Fairfax Street
Friday, October 23
6-8 p.m.
$25 per person (18+ and over)
Purchase Tickets

Inspired by American Girl Doll's 40th Anniversary and the release of the book- Samantha: The Next Chapter, join us for an evening of 1920s music, games, mocktails, and more! This event is appropriate for those 18 years and older. Vendors include Old Town Books, Old Town Mahjong, and Dolci Gelati.

Specialty Tours: Preservation of Carlyle
Carlyle House Historic Park, 121 N. Fairfax Street
Saturday, October 24
1:30-3 p.m.
$8 per person
Purchase Tickets

In the 19th century, James Green made renovations to John Carlyle's stone mansion to bring it up-to-date. When NOVA Parks purchased Carlyle House in 1970, the decision was made to bring it back to Carlyle's 18th century mansion. Join our experts in an in-depth exploration of the changes the architects made using photographs and artifacts.

Alexandria Historical Society Presents "The Burning Bride" Walking Tour
Old Town Alexandria. Participants will receive the meeting location by email the day before the tour. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
Saturday, October 24
2-3 p.m.
$20 for AHS members and $25 for non-members. Advance reservations are required.
Purchase Tickets

The Alexandria Historical Society (AHS) will present "The Burning Bride," a guided walking tour exploring one of Old Town Alexandria's most enduring ghost stories. Led by AHS board member and historian Scott Vierick, the tour explores the fascinating history and folklore behind one of Alexandria's most enduring ghost stories. According to local legend, Laura Schafer died in a tragic accident shortly before her wedding in 1868. Her ghost is said to have haunted 107 North Fairfax Street, now home to Dolci Gelati, ever since. But how much of this haunting tale is supported by historical evidence?

Tables of Conscience Book-Themed Dinners
Dinner location will be emailed to participants.
Saturday, October 24
6 p.m.
$125 donation per person. The cost of the book is not included in the price of the event.
Reserve your tickets here!

ACRP is holding book-themed dinners to raise money for the 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 the ACRP page for additional information on payment. The dinner's discussion book must be purchased separately from a local bookstore.

America, USA, How Race Shadows the Nation's Anniversariesby Eddie Glaude, Jr. In this beautifully written book, Eddie S. Glaude, Jr., harnesses the voices of W.E.B DuBois, John Dos Passos, Herman Melvill and Martin Luther King, Jr. among others to reflect on America's complicated 250-year history. Glaude, Jr.'s writing captures the essence of James Baldwin, delivering a straightforward, honest critique of race relations and the state of democracy. The book, that helps readers create a relationship with the past so that a better future can be imagined, has been described as "moving" and "profound."

Death Comes to Carlyle House
Carlyle House Historic Park, 121 N. Fairfax Street
Saturday, October 24
6-8 p.m.
$10 per person
Purchase Tickets

In September 1780, John Carlyle passed away and the family would have gone into mourning. Join our tour guides for one night only to learn about death and mourning in the 18th century. Tours will be self paced and visitors can enter the house starting at 6 p.m. with the last entry at 7:45 p.m.

Swedish Coffee Culture Event
Buzz Bakeshop, 901 Slaters Lane
Sunday, October 25
3-5 p.m.
$10 per person
Purchase Tickets
Fika Event To-Go Box

Join the Alexandria Sister Cities Committee at Buzz Bakeshop (901 Slaters Lane) to learn about Swedish Coffee culture (fika)! As part of Alexandria's sister city relationship with Helsingborg, Sweden, this event celebrates a beloved Swedish tradition. In Sweden, fika is part of everyday life and a big part of their culture. Fika is when you take time for a colleague or friend and have a coffee (or tea), ideally enjoyed with a yummy baked treat. So much more than enjoying the coffee and cookie, fika allows you to slow down and appreciate the good things in life. Many Swedes consider it almost essential to fika everyday (many companies add a clause to contracts stating that employees are entitled to fika breaks!). Kristina's Swede treats will give a fika introduction with traditional pastries.

Fika Event To-Go Box (Buzz Bakeshop)

A limited number of fika-boxes will also be available for purchase ($20). They are listed as a separate event in the Alexandria Shop event page. A fika-box includes two cinnamon buns, two chocolate cuts, and two raspberry caves.

Trivia at Historic Sites-Halloween
Carlyle House Historic Park, 121 N. Fairfax Street
Wednesday, October 28
6-8 p.m.
$15 per person (includes snacks and mocktails)
Purchase Tickets

Staff members at Carlyle House Historic Park combine their knowledge to create a spooky fun Trivia in honor of Halloween. Test your knowledge on everything Halloween from general facts to movies to food. Special Guest hosts: Alexandria Colonial Tours! Teams are limited to 6 people. No outside alcohol is allowed. Registration must be done in advance. Limited capacity so register early!

Alexandria Historical Society Presents What's New in Alexandria History?
The Alexandria History Museum at The Lyceum, 201 South Washington Street
Wednesday, October 28
7 p.m. (Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Light refreshments will be available.)
Free and open to the public

The evening will feature presentations by three recipients of the Society's 2025- 2026 historical research and interpretation grants, who will share their work on new exhibits at the Lee-Fendall House and Woodlawn, along with a fascinating project exploring the 114-year history of the Alexandria Citizens Band.

Established in 2024 to commemorate the Alexandria Historical Society's 50th anniversary, the AHS Grants Program supports historical research and interpretation projects relating to Alexandria and Northern Virginia. These competitive awards help bring local history to life through exhibits, original research, and public programs. Each year, grant recipients share their work with the community, offering new perspectives on the people, places, and events that have shaped the region.

Poe in Alexandria
Alexandria History Museum at The Lyceum,201 South Washington Street
Thursday, October 29 and Friday, October 30
8 p.m. (Doors open at 7:15 p.m.)
$25 / person; $20 for Historic Alexandria Members and Volunteers
Purchase Tickets

Don't miss an unforgettable evening with America's earliest master of the macabre - Edgar Allan Poe! Actor David Keltz returns to The Lyceum's lecture hall to re-create Poe's visit to Virginia in 1849, shortly before his death. This year's performance will include short stories, poems, musings, and literary criticism. Mr. Keltz's performance has been lauded by The Poe House and Museum in Baltimore, The Poe Museum in Richmond, and the Poe National Historic Site in Philadelphia. Advance purchase of tickets is strongly recommended. Doors at 7:15 p.m., performance begins at 8 p.m. Wine and beer bar will be available before the show (credit and cash accepted).

Specialty Tour: Poisons at the Apothecary Museum - SOLD OUT
Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum, 105-107 S Fairfax Street
Friday, October 30
6-7 p.m.
$15 / person; $12 for Historic Alexandria Members

Haunted Lantern Tours
Friday, October 30th & Saturday, October 31
7 p.m. & 8 p.m. (The tour last approximately 45 minutes)
$20 / person - tickets here

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 the ghostly stories from within its walls. As you are led through the first and second floors of the home by the light of lantern, you might just hear or see something spooky along the way.

Pumpkin Palooza
Saturday, October 31
Noon - 2 p.m.
$20 / child | $10 / adult - tickets here

Celebrate spooky season at the Lee-Fendall House & bring the whole family for an afternoon of fall-themed fun! Activities will include pumpkin decorating, a craft station, face painting, and games.

Admission includes up to 2 pumpkins per family. Pumpkin Palooza will occur rain or shine. In the event of inclement weather, ticket price (not including fees) will be refunded.

Lecture - Tracing a Child's Heritage in Virginia
Freedom House Museum, 1315 Duke Street
Sunday, November 1
3-5 p.m.
Free registration required for the lecture

Genealogist Char McCargo Bah presents the lecture that explores the difficulties of researching enslaved persons, free people of color, and family ownership from the 20th to 18th centuries. It begins with a child buried at Alexandria's Contraband and Freedmen Cemetery Memorial then expands to her enslaved relatives, and her mother and aunt from Middletown, Virginia. After sixteen years of research by Bah, their stories can now be told.

ACRP Discerning Dinner
Lloyd House, 220 N. Washington Street
Thursday, November 5
6-8:30 p.m.
Purchase Tickets

This first community conversation dinner will feature a simple dinner and discussion of the Underground Railroad with Tony Cohen, co-founder of the Montgomery County Lynching Memorial Project. Cohen, an expert on the Underground Railroad, has explored it from Maryland to Canada and recently led a group on a walk through history.

Reserve space at a Discerning Dinner and join the conversation while supporting the Alexandria Community Remembrance Project's Memorial Scholarship Program. Each academic year, ACRP invites guest speakers to lead participants in meaningful conversation while enjoying a simple dinner together. Learn more about this and other upcoming events on the ACRP webpage.

Specialty Tour: Hamilton's BFF & Frenemies
Gadsby's Tavern Museum, 134 N. Royal Street
Saturdays, November 7, 14, and 21
10:30 - 11:30 a.m.
$15 / person; $12 for 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.

An Intimate Evening with George Washington
The Duvall House, 305 Cameron Street
Saturday, November 7
5:30 - 7:30 p.m.
$150 per person
Purchase Tickets

Join George Washington at the historic Duvall House, where his "coming home" party was held upon his return from the Revolutionary War! The General will talk about his most memorable moments of the War, and answer questions about his life and times. Libations and heavy hors d'oeuvres will be served. Proceeds to benefit the 2027 George Washington Birthday Parade in Alexandria. Dressy casual.

Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum 20th Anniversary Open House
Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum, 105-107 S Fairfax Street
Sunday, November 8
1-5 p.m.
Free

The Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum is hosting an open house with free, stationed tours to celebrate 20 years as a City-owned museum. On view for the event will be Edward Stabler's 1790s daybook and an account and prescription book from the 1860s. Rarely on view, these materials will be part of the museum's future conservation efforts of archival materials. This family-run pharmacy operated from 1792 until 1933. Upon declaring bankruptcy and closing in 1933, community members purchased the building and its contents, officially opening to visitors as a museum in 1939. They established the Landmarks Society, now known as the Mortar and Pestle Society, to own and operate the museum. After an extensive renovation, the Landmarks Society donated the museum and its contents to the City of Alexandria in November 2006.

Save the Date! Alexandria Cider Festival
Saturday, November 21
1-5 p.m.

Lloyd House grounds, 220 N. Washington Street and on Queen Street
$50 per person through November 1, $55 November 2-20, and $25 for designated drivers. Tickets can be purchased at the door for $65.
Purchase Tickets

Celebrate Virginia Cider Week with a special tasting event on the grounds of historic Lloyd House and on Queen Street in Old Town Alexandria. The event includes cider tastings, a souvenir cider glass, live music, tavern games, a food truck, and a little history too! This year, for the nation's 250th anniversary, the VA250 Mobile Museum Experience ("Out of Many, One") will be open on Queen Street during the event. Dress for the weather - the event is outdoors! Proceeds from the Cider Festival will benefit the Historic Alexandria Museums. Minimum Age: 21

October Is Virginia Archaeology Month!

Celebrate Virginia Archaeology Month in Alexandria with special events and programs highlighting important archaeological sites and preservation efforts across the City. Visit the free Alexandria Archaeology Museum on the third floor of the Torpedo Factory Art Center,105 North Union Street, or explore the full schedule of October events.

Alexandria Archaeological Commission Announces Winners of Brenman Archaeology Award

The Alexandria Archaeological Commission (AAC) is proud to announce the two winners of the annual Bernard "Ben" Brenman Archaeology in Alexandria Award. The awards were presented by Mayor Gaskins on Tuesday, October 13, at the Alexandria City Council meeting. Councilman John Chapman read the proclamation. Stephanie Johnson accepted the award on behalf of the Friends of Frederick Douglass Memorial Cemetery, and Steven L. Nelson accepted the other award on behalf of the Social Responsibility Group.

The 2026 Brenman Awards for Outstanding Community Partners highlight the preservation and stewardship of Douglass Memorial Cemetery, founded in 1895 as a segregated, nondenominational African American cemetery. The honorees were recognized for their commitment to preservation, advocacy, and citizen-city partnership at Douglass Cemetery. The two organizations have partnered with volunteers, neighbors, and Office of Historic Alexandria staff to raise awareness for this sacred, final resting place of over 2,200 Alexandrians.

The AAC established the Brenman Award in 2007 in honor of the late activist and retired U.S. Army colonel, Bernard "Ben" Brenman, a founding member of the AAC who served as its chair for 21 years. The award recognizes individuals and organizations for their efforts in archaeological investigation, research, site protection, education, public interpretation, and conservation.

To learn more about the Ben Brenman Archaeology in Alexandria Awards or view past recipients, visit alexandriava.gov/go/1343.

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
Saturday, November 14, 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 Traveling Exhibition opens at the Freedom House Museum October 22

On October 22nd the traveling exhibition, Monday Robinson: A Life of Thorns and Roses, will open at the Freedom House Museum at 1315 Duke Street in Alexandria, Virginia. This exhibition was created by Belle Grove Plantation located in Middletown, Virginia where it debuted in September of this year.

This exhibit highlights the life of Monday Robinson born in 1778, a man whose story encompassed enslavement, freedom, and later, the enslavement of members of his own family as a means of protection.

Exhibit included in regular admission, which is always free for Alexandria Residents!

Free registration required for the lecture "Tracing a Child's Heritage in Virginia" connected to the temporary exhibition Monday Robinson: A Life of Thorns and Roses created by Belle Grove Plantation in Middletown, Virginia on display at the Freedom House Museum through December 31.

Exhibit: Stories of U.S.: Collections Capture Our History - Now open

A silver coffee pot, a family story, a business letter, or a photograph -- each provide a glimpse into the past. The Office of Historic Alexandria collects these items and memories to reflect our community and preserve the moments that define us. This exhibition, marking the 250th anniversary of the United States, showcases recently acquired objects, many on view for the first time at the Alexandria History Museum at The Lyceum. These pieces provide a powerful, tangible connection to both our local history and national story..

Exhibit: Buglers & Brass Bands: Soldier Musicians in the Civil War - Now open

Fort Ward opened a new exhibit on May 16, 2026 that explores the essential role that music played in the daily life of the Civil War soldier, both in camp and on the battlefield. The exhibit features a variety of musical instruments and sheet music of the period from the Museum's extensive Civil War collection. The exhibit will be on view through May 2027.

Exhibit: Women in Business: We Were Always Here

Gadsby's Tavern Museum'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

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: Aboard Ship with the Jack-Tars of the Union Navy

A new exhibition at Fort Ward Museum opened October 2. 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 October 19, 1781, after eight years of conflict, British General Lord Charles Cornwallis surrendered to General George Washington at Yorktown, Virginia and the American colonies finally secured their freedom from Great Britain. Failing to achieve a final victory in the northeast or the middle colonies, the British concentrated more of their efforts in the South. In early 1781, a British army led by the turncoat Benedict Arnold took Richmond and Portsmouth and routed the Virginia militia under the Baron von Steuben. Lord Cornwallis arrived with another army in May and insisted that Virginia should be the main theater of war. Major General Sir Henry Clinton refused to send reinforcements to Cornwallis but ordered him to remain to establish a base. As Cornwallis's men dug in at Yorktown, the Americans and French decided to capitalize on their temporary numerical advantage and attack. As the Americans traveled southward before their Yorktown victory, thousands of soldiers camped in a large area just north of Oronoco Street in Alexandria along what is now called the Washington-Rochambeau Revolutionary Route.

Upcoming Commission and Committee Events

Commissions Supporting Historic Alexandria

• October 19 George Washington Birthday Celebration Committee (GWBCC)
  Lloyd House, 220 N. Washington Street
  7-9 p.m.
• October 20 Historic Alexandria Resources Commission (HARC)
  Lloyd House, 220 N. Washington Street
  7-9 p.m.
• October 21 Alexandria Archaeological Commission (AAC)
  Lloyd House, 220 N. Washington Street
  7-9 p.m.
• October 26 Sister Cities Committee (SCC)
  Lloyd House, 220 N. Washington Street
  7-8:30 p.m.
• November 2 Alexandria-Caen Sister City Committee
  Lloyd House, 220 N. Washington Street
  7-9 p.m.
• November 3 Public Records Advisory Commission (PRAC)
  Archives and Records Center, 801 south Payne street
  7:30 p.m.
• November 9 Committee of Inquiry
  Alexandria Black History Museum, 902 Wythe Street
  7 p.m.
• November 16 George Washington Birthday Celebration Committee (GWBCC)
  Lloyd House, 220 N. Washington Street
  7-9 p.m.
• November 18 Alexandria Historical Restoration and Preservation Commission (AHRPC)
  Lloyd House, 220 N. Washington Street
  8-9:15 a.m.