At Alexandria's Southside on the Potomac
Just steps from Porto Vecchio the brick sidewalks of Old Town, so-called because it is the oldest part of Alexandria – originally laid out in 1749 – and a nationally designated historic district. Many of its 4,000 historic buildings houses, art galleries, antique shops and restaurants. Once the site of the second-largest slave market in the United States, Old Town’s Market Square now contains a large fountain, extensive landscaping and a Saturday morning farmers’ market. Old Town is known for its illustrious residents and guests. George Washington called it home. Robert E. Lee worshipped at Christ Church and Thomas Jefferson entertained at nearby Gadsby’s Tavern. Old Town Alexandria offer a full menu of dining choices with restaurants ranging from fast-food to white tablecloth. A night on the town can be had at spots such as the Oyster Bar and Club Room at Union Street. Porto Vecchio straddles the Mount Vernon trail which runs upriver toward Reagan National Airport and downriver toward Mount Vernon. Many residents of Porto Vecchio have views of the Belle Haven Marina or the Belle Haven Country Club. Neighborhood Highlights
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 Alexandria is a Colonial seaport located down-river and within eyesight of Washington DC. Alexandria was George Washington's hometown. The city's roster of historic sites underlines how historically influential it has been. Thomas Jefferson entertained at Gadsby's Tavern; Robert E. Lee worshipped at Christ Church. The Old Town district includes more than 4,000 historic buildings, outstanding examples of early American architecture that now house small businesses and gracious homes, all waiting to give you a modern welcome. Old Town is characterized by brick sidewalks that line historic structures. Elegant modern structures are carefully planned to fit with the feel of Old Town. |
Shopping in Old TownAnne Taylor, Banana Republic, the Gap, Birkenstock, Brooks Brothers, & Talbot are just a few of the nationally recognized retailers with a presence in Old Town. In addition a wide variety of boutiques and shops provide clothing, jewelry, books, home furnishings and more.
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Dining in Old TownAlexandria has a plethora of cuisines available in local restaurants. Prices range from fast-food to fine-dining, but most of the restaurants in Old Towne offer upscale fare at reasonable prices. Also, you'll find the variety and selection you would expect at any tourist spot: ice cream parlors, specialty bakeries, taverns and public houses.
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Evening in Old TownThroughout the year Old Town Alexandria remains a popular night-spot for locals and tourists alike. Old Town has a unique vibe though. You won't find frat-style keg parties, or sweaty after-hours discoteques in Old Town. The evening starts with families and tourists and the dancers and drinkers show up late. The atmosphere is subtly more upscale than other nightspots in the DC area. The partiers are laid-back and approachable but well-dressed with impeccable behavior.
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Athenaeum
Located in the heart of Old Town Alexandria, The Athenaeum is home to the Northern Virginia Fine Arts Association (NVFAA). Constructed between 1851-52, the Athenaeum is a Greek revival building with a rich history. The building is named after the Greek Goddess of wisdom, Athena. Over the years The Athenaeum has taken many names and was used for many functions. Together with the Lyceum, the Athenaeum is a foundation of Alexandria's Greek neo-classic buildings.
The building has a long history of use in Alexandria. Before the Civil War, Robert E. Lee banked here, when the building was known as the Bank of the Old Dominion. During the Civil War it was occupied by Federals and home to the Union Army Commissary Headquarters. In 1905, the bank was converted from commercial to industrial purposes. The building was used by the Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Shop as a place to grind talcum into powder. In 1925, the talcum factory became the Free Methodist Church.
NVFAA purchased the Athenaeum in 1964. Since then, restorations have taken place using the funds from the members of the NVFAA and the National Park Service Save America's Treasure Grant.
Recent art exhibits include Song For Europe by Mark Cameron Boyd is participatory installation using his signature "text bisection" process on a series of chalkboards to address four different languages from European origin such as Greek, Latin, French, and English. This exhibit is on display from August 16th - September 21st.
Music is another art form featured at The Athenaeum. Up and coming:
- September 11th - Tom Dews with Patricia Cooper.
- October 9th - Lori Grigsby & Sandy Moyer with Patricia Cooper
- December 11th - BumpKin Pie
Yoga classes are available at The Athenaeum. Instructor Betsy Huffman welcomes drop-ins. Class fees are only $18 per class. Classes are Mondays 11:30am
The Athenaeum is available for rentals for weddings, receptions, parties, business meetings and seminars.
Gallery Hours:
Thursday, Friday, & Sunday: Noon-4pm
Saturday 1pm-4pm
The Athenaeum
201 Prince St.
Alexandria, VA 22314
(703) 548-0035
Gadsby's Tavern
Old Town Alexandria is famed for its quaint historical atmosphere. Englishman John Gadsby operated a tavern here from 1796 to 1808. In those days, the tavern was the hub of political, business and social circles in Alexandria. Thus, Gadsby's Tavern is an important part of the 18th Century heritage of today's Old Town Alexandria.
Today Gadsby's Tavern Museum is located on Royal Street, a few blocks from route of the King St. trolley. Admission is only $4 for adults and $2 for children. Children under 11 are FREE when accompanied by a paying adult. The museum consists of two buildings, a ca. 1785 tavern and the 1792 City Hotel.
While in operation, the tavern was the setting for dancing assemblies, theatrical and musical performances, and meetings of local organizations. Prominent patrons such as George Washington, John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, and the Marquis de Lafayette are part of the history of Gadsby's.
At the tavern you can journey back to the 18th-century in a place where famous historical figures and everyday people dined and slept. The museum helps educate today's generations about the history, architecture, decorative arts, social customs, food, and clothing of the 1700's.
There is a restaurant still in operation in the building. The tavern can be rented for weddings, banquets and any meeting where linen tablecloths and a post-colonial setting are appreciated. Please note some tour times are not available due to special events at the museum. Please call in advance or check the online calendar for more information.
Tour Hours
November to March:
Wednesday to Saturday: 11 am to 4 pm
Sunday: 1 pm to 4 pm
Monday and Tuesday: Closed
Last tour: At 3:45 pm
Closed: New Year's Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas
April to October:
Tuesday to Saturday: 10 am to 5 pm
Sunday and Monday: 1 pm to 5 pm
Last tour: At 4:45 pm.
Closed: New Year's Day,
Thanksgiving, Christmas
George Washington Parkway
Porto Vecchio is on the George Washington Parkway at the point where the the Parkway crosses the Beltway toward Mount Vernon.
The George Washington Memorial Parkway, often called the GW Parkway by locals, meanders through parks on both sides of the road and is usually within close proximity to and sight of the Potomac River. The US Park Service maintains this and all parkways. Parkways are designed to be scenic meandering roads with light traffic. Despite finding a path through the most urban parts of Northern Virginia, the GW Parkway largely accomplishes these goals.
Top posted speed on the Parkway is 50 mph, and cruising speeds rarely exceed this limit. On the other hand, even during the worst of rush hour, speeds are rarely less than 45 mph. Those who are unfamiliar with traffic in the national Capitol region might not fully appreciate what an accomplishment this is.
To put these numbers in perspective, posted speeds on I-495 (the Beltway) are generally 55 mph. Traffic on the Beltway often exceeds 65 mph, but during rush hour, there are several points where the traffic slows to less than 25 mph. The Beltway is bumper to bumper madness squeezed between concrete sound-walls, while the GW Parkway is an easy cruise along the Potomac. Is it any wonder why I love the GW?
The GW Parkway winds along the banks of the Potomac River, starting near Great Falls in Mclean and then travels downriver all the way to Mt. Vernon, George Washington's Mansion. The parkway is an ideal drive for a tourist or visitor who would like to see some of the best views and sites the area has to offer.
A broad well-maintain bike and jogging trail runs the length of the GW Parkway, and is well used by residents and tourists alike.
Driving Down River
From the CIA Headquarters, downriver to the hieghts of Rosslyn, there are several overlooks that provide nice views of Georgetown in Washington DC. Picnicers will find parks and pull-overs where they can take a break from their drive along the Potomac.
After passing under the beautiful Francis Scott Key Bridge, the Parkway passes one of my favorite (and one of the area's least known) Presidential memorials---Teddy Roosevelt Island. This forested island on the Potomac takes visitors into another world, and as you walk the trails on the island it is easy to forget that you are in an urban environment. If you've never done so, walk the trails and discover T. Roosevelt's statue and memorial---a fitting tribute to a man who love the outdoors and who helped establish the national park system.
If you're travelling south, or downriver, you won't have access to the island at this point and you'll have to save that bit of fun for your return. But just minutes past the Key Bridge, you'll clear the woods of Teddy Roosevelt Island and Rosslyn's bluff and will get your first glimpse of the national Capitol in all it's glory.
At the Monuments
From the road you'll have views of the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument and Jefferson Memorial across the Potomac in Washington DC. On the hill above you in Virginia, you'll have a glimpse of the Iwo Jima Memorial. There is a mish-mash of poorly marked connecting roads entering and leaving the Parkway as you approach Memorial Bridge at and around the Iwo Jima Memorial.
These connectors can be confusing to tourists, but locals zip on and off the Parkway to access DC or Arlington. Despite the potential for accidents with slower moving site-seers and quick moving commuters, there are few incidents here: a testament to the fine design of the Parkway.
Memorial Bridge marks the entrance to Arlington National Cemetary, a solemn and beautiful place where Presidents, soldiers and honored citizens of the United States have taken their final rest. Fittingly, Memorial Bridge connects Arlington House, Robert E. Lee's home in Virginia, with the Lincoln Memorial, symbolizing the bridge that connects North and South in union.
National Airport
As one passes the Memorial Bridge the Jefferson Memorial with its famed Tidal Pools, becomes more visible. Past the Jefferson Memorial, the Parkway crosses Humpback Bridge onto Columbia Island, home to Lady Bird Johnson Memorial Grove. At this point, travellers downriver will have access to a pleasant picnic area which provides excellent views up to the Pentagon and the Air Force Memorial.
As the parkway leaves the island, it jogs away from the Pentagon and the hi-rise skyline of Crystal City toward Ronald Reagan National Airport. The airport's runaway nearly meets the road as the parkway gentle wends its way downriver. Here the parkway offers pleasant views of the Potomac and local air traffic landing at Reagan National. Just past the airport is the first of two marinas on the parkway.
Old Town Alexandria
After the marina, the Parkway slows to a traffic light and then for the next mile or so, makes its way through the streets of Old Town Alexandria. Old Town is a delight, with shops, boutiques and historical sites. Past Old Town the view opens up again with a sweeping view of the River toward National Harbor. The Belle Haven Country Club marks the approach to the Belle Haven Marina. This provides a great spot for a picnic as well as an opportunity to rent canoes, kayaks, rowboats and sailboats.
Past the marina is the Dyke Marsh, a wetlands filled with birds, fish and wildlife. Across the river Fort Washington, a relic of the War of 1812 watches the narrows of the Potomac. Fort Washington, once a military stronghold, now a pleasant park, is a destination in itself and is worth an afternoon. The Virginia side of the river has Fort Hunt, where moldering remnants of World War II stand silent watch over a peaceful park.
Mansion at Mount Vernon
After several scenic vistas at and around Stratford Landing and Arcturus, the Parkway at last comes to an end at George Washington's mansion at Mount Vernon. Mount Vernon Estate & Gardens is the oldest national historic preservation organization in the country. Mount Vernon is the most popular historic estate in America. The grounds are well-preserved as is the home itself.
Summary
The GW Parkway runs from Mt. Vernon to Mclean and Great Falls through the Alexandria and Arlington. At it's southern end it meets Old Mount Vernon Highway. Upriver, it is connected by the American Legion Bridge to a continuation in Maryland on the Clara Barton Parkway. The GW Parkway provides excellent views that are impressive to even a jaded commuter.
A commuter will find this is one of the best routes around the nation's Capitol.
As a result of this, or because of this, some of the priciest and most exclusive neighborhoods in Northern Virginia are found along the GW Parkway. Here's a sampling what's currently on the market in some of these neighborhoods along the Parkway.
King St. Metro and Free Trolley
The King St. Metro is a great station for commuters, day-trippers or tourists. Near the Metro, one will find many interesting things to fill an afternoon, an evening or an entire day.
The King St. Metro serves both the Yellow and Blue Lines. It is a hub for many bus routes and the King St. Trolley. Most hours there are cabs waiting at the station to serve as needed.
In addition, this station links the Virginia Railway Express (VRE) and Amtrak to the Washington Metro Transit Authority. There are a variety of fun things to do here, just a few blocks from the new Patent and Trademark Office, and I'll describe a few below.
The King St. Metro stops at the foot of the Shooters Hill, the location of the "Alexandria Lighthouse" (aka the George Washington National Masonic Memorical.)
This structure is visible from miles around owing to its great size and strategic position atop the hill just outside Old Town Alexandria. The George Washington Masonic Memorial performs many functions. First and foremost, it is a Masonic Memorial, honoring and perpuating the memory and character of a fellow mason, George Washington.
In addition this edifice serves as a tourist attraction and destination for many. The building hosts a research center and masonic library. The facilities can be rented for the purpose of community activities including performing arts and concerts.
The building houses banquets hosts celebrations. It regularly serves as a meeting site for Masonic and appendant Bodies. If you have never toured the building, it's an interesting and fun way to get a new perspective on Alexandria, Old Town and Masonry.
The King St. Metro stops at the foot of the hill where King St. veers away from Old Town. From the Memorial, and from the Metro, one can look down King St. toward the Potomac to the unique shops, boutiques, restaurants, nightclubs and activities of Old Town Alexandria. The area has some of the shops you would expect in an upscale mall, but many of shops and restaurants you'll find only here.
Old Town Alexandria was a Colonial seaport. It is located down-river and within eyesight of Washington DC. Alexandria was George Washington's hometown. The city's roster of historic sites underlines how historically influential it has been. Thomas Jefferson entertained at Gadsby's Tavern; Robert E. Lee worshipped at Christ Church.
The Old Town district includes more than 4,000 historic buildings, outstanding examples of early American architecture that now house small businesses and gracious homes, all waiting to give you a modern welcome. Old Town is characterized by brick sidewalks that line historic structures. Elegant modern structures are carefully planned to fit with the feel of Old Town.
Real Estate in Old Town is generally pricey and prestigious. Parking can be a bit of a hassle, especially in touristy areas along King St. Therefore, a great way to explore the area is to take the Metro to King St. and then hop a ride on the King St. Trolley. The trolley runs its route from 10 am to 10 pm every day. A printable map is available for those who know nothing about the area.
There is no charge to ride the trolley and it makes stops about every two blocks between the King St. Metro and the Potomac. The length of this circuit can be walked in about 20 minutes, so many choose to take the trolley to the Potomac and then walk back to the Metro through Old Town.
The Trolley makes it final stop before returning to the Metro near the Torpedo Factory. Just as the name implies, the Torpedo Factory was torpedo factory in the early part of the last century. Today it is a world-renowned art center with three floors of open studios and galleries. Here, one can observe artists and purchase original artwork. The Torpedo Factory is on the waterfront where street musicians and entertainers play nearly every night.
The Trolley was designed to compliment service by the National Harbor's new Water Taxi. The National Harbor is located across the Potomac in Maryland and is the site of a brand new convention center. The convention center and many restaurants are already open in this brand new area landmark. Additionally boat service is available up and down river from the Strand in Old Town.
What's for sale?
Click King St. Metro to see a map of King St. Metro and to search property for sale near the metro. If you're looking for a comprehensive list of properties for sale near the metro check here.
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Mount Vernon Rec Center
The Mount Vernon Recreation Center is a county run facility with a multitude of activities and services including a fully equipped weight room and work-out facilities. In addition to the Mount Vernon Rec Center, the county provides indoor pools at nearby Lee District Rec Center and George Washington Rec Center. For a complete list of area pools and swimming related activities, check the Alexandria Masters Swim club.
The Rec Center has year round ice skating and ice hockey.
There is a heated indoor pool, sauna, and diving platforms.
Martha Washington Library
The Rec Center neighbors Martha Washington Library.
Telephone: 703-768-6700
TTY: 703-324-8365
The library is on Fort Hunt Road and is adjacent to Mount Vernon District Park. It is surrounded by woods which connect to the neighborhood by paths and foot-bridges.
Fort Hunt Park
Fort Hunt Park consists of 105 acres located along the Potomac River in Fairfax County, Virginia, approximately 6 miles south of Old Town Alexandria. The Park is a part of the over 7,000 acres that make up the George Washington Memorial Parkway. The lands of Fort Hunt Park were originally a part of George Washington's personal farm and were became a military outpost and now serves as a picnic area and nature park.
So that all may better understand the history of Fort Hunt, the Park Service has begun research to uncover the names of the many veterans who served at Fort Hunt when it was a military outpost.
Fort Hunt Park was converted into a fortification during the Spanish - American War. In 1897 the fort was modernized for military operations. During War World II the fort was used as a top secret military intelligence outpost.
After both World War I and World War II, Fort Hunt was virtually abandoned due to military cutbacks. The National Park Service now adminstrates Fort Hunt Park a recreational park for public use. Fort Hunt has been a focal point of personal dramas of all kind throughout its history, but now it's dedicated to public recreation.
Hours are 7am until sunset year round for general use. From April - October reservations are needed to use some areas of the park. For information about homes and neighborhoods near and around Fort Hunt Road check out Fort Hunt Info.
[back to top]Lloyd House
Built between 1796-1797 in Georgian style by John Wise, the Lloyd House was occupied the Lloyd family from 1832-1918 and home to Carolyn Hallowell Miller, a suffragist leader after the Civil War. The Lloyd House use to be a branch of the Alexandria Library but now houses the Office of Historic Alexandria.
Many events are welcome to take place at the Lloyd House such as weddings, rehearsal dinners, fund-raisers, and workshops. Only the first floor and garden is permitted for use and could accommodate 100 people depending on the type of venue. The North Parlor Room has a maximum capacity of 50 seated dinner/meeting and 90 limited seating, mixer event. There is one unisex bathroom on the first floor for public use.
Facilities Coordinator
Lloyd House
220 N. Washington Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
(703) 838-4554
For your real estate needs and around Alexandria, please contact Will Nesbitt of Condo Alexandria. We serve buyers, sellers, renters and landlords.
[back to top]Lyceum
The Lyceum was built in 1839 and was founded by a group of gentlemen who formed with the Alexandria Library Company. Over the years the Lyceum has served many purposes.
Before the Civil War, the Lyceum was a cultural center in Alexandria but this was ended when the war came to the city. During the Civil War, the Lyceum was a hospital by the Union Army. It has been an office building, a private home, and was the nation's first Bicentennial Center. In 1985 The Lyceum became Alexandria's Historical Museum.
Now The Lyceum can be rented for many purposes such as concerts, lectures, school programs, volunteer functions that the whole community can participate in, and also weddings.
The outside of the building is in the Greek style form of architecture which gives The Lyceum a distinct look. For tourists who plan to visit The Lyceum there are many historical memorabilia items which include the Civil War, documents, antique silver, photographs, furniture, and 19th century stoneware. The Lyceum was intended to be the cultural center of Alexandria and now it has returned to its former prominence.
The Lyceum is a very charming place and anyone who would like to visit will not be disappointed. The Lyceum is at the heart of Old Town Alexandria and is a charming and wonderful place to live.
[back to top]Mount Vernon & More
Mount Vernon Estate & Gardens is the oldest national historic preservation organization in the country, and it has always been in the forefront of the restoration field. Mount Vernon is the most popular historic estate in America and is open 365 days a year. Mount Vernon was the home of our first President George Washington. The grounds are well-preserved as is the home itself.
Alexandria Lyceum is a grand hall built in the late 1800's to provide a place for lectures, scientific experiments and quiet reading. Since that time, it has been a Civil War hospital, a private home, an office building and the nation's first Bicentennial Center. In 1985, The Lyceum became Alexandria's History Museum, providing exhibitions, school programs, lectures and concerts, volunteer opportunities and space for rental functions for the community. The Lyceum Museum Shop carries a wide variety of maps, books, note cards and special items related to Alexandria's history. The present-day Lyceum Company serves the museum as a membership and fund-raising organization.
Walk to Old Towne! Old Towne is filled with
historic landmarks, carriage rides and walking history tours.
Just a few miles down George Washington Parkway is the nationally renown collection of museums called the Smithsonian Institution. The Smithsonian National Zoological Park is a wonderful zoo.
Civil War enthusiasts might want to inspect Fort Willard just as President Lincoln did. Fort Willard has long since abandoned its military use and is now a quiet park like Fort Hunt.
If you are interested in architecture and local history visit Frank Lloyd Wright's Pope-Leighey House or the Woodlawn Plantation. The Collingwood Library and musuem is dedicated to providing information about our national heritage to the American Public. Collingwood is available to anyone who cares to learn of the heroic efforts made by American Patriots, particularly members of the Masonic Fraternity, in founding and developing this, the greatest nation on earth.
Collingwood is a resource as a local library but also interesting place to visit in it's own right.
Oronoco Bay Park
Oronoco Bay Park is a 4.5 acre Alexandria City park is located on the Potomac River at 701 North Lee Street. It has many entry points, the most obvious are at either the Madison or Pendleton Streets entries or from the Wythe Street Plaza. The plaza entry is approximately in the center of the park and there is also a sidewalk entry with trees and turf area between the Sheet Metal Workers of America building and the United Way building.
The park was once known as "Texaco Bay" and before that it was owned by Standard Oil Company which was owned by John D. Rockefeller. However, the City acquired the property (and changed to Oronoco Bay Park) in the early 1980's. Historically, the Alexandria area was inhabited by Indians when Captain John Smith sailed up the Potomac in the mid 17th Century.
The park host several festivals and events including the annual "Red Cross Waterfront Festival"---the largest Red Cross fund raiser in the United States. Private concerns may reserve and rent the park for their events as well.
This park is part of the linear park system along the Potomac. People can walk, jog or bike along the river path and enjoy the many sitting and picnic areas. There are wooden sun decks out into the river and a wooden boardwalk path that connects the path to the point where the bay and river meet near the Rowing Facility building.
Reagan National Airport
The Mount Vernon trail weaves from Mount Vernon to Reagan National and beyond, passing Porto Vecchio. Residents can make use of the Porto Vecchio limo when travelling.
Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, formerly Washington National Airport, is on the Potomac across the river from Washington DC. Along with Baltimore Washington International and Dulles International, Reagan National is one of three major airports serving the Washington Metro area. Reagan National is easily my favorite of the three airports for a number of reasons.
Dulles and BWI are massive sprawling airports with shuttle buses and mobile lounges. Reagan National barely has enough room for the runway. I always like smaller airports. They feel like they are scaled to human beings. There is plenty of security at National, but it seems to move along more smoothly than Dulles or BWI.
Dulles and BWI are outside the Beltway at the periphery of the Washington Capitol Area. Reagan National is at the heart of everything, wedged at the confluence of DC, Alexandria and Arlington. For me, it's a long drive just to get to BWI or Dulles, but Reagan National is here, and it's accessible by Metro. Reagan National is a station on both the Yellow and Blue lines.
Extended parking is available at Dulles or BWI, but on the shuttle bus, the ride from the parking lot to the terminal seems like a mile or more. At Reagan National, extended parking is at my house. Because instead of taking a shuttle, I can take the Metro to the airport.
The runway is a short at Reagan National and it launches planes up over GW Parkway and at the Washington Monument, requiring a steep climb and a hard left on take off. Some folks find this terrifying, but I have to admit I love it. I know it's a safe path, because planes take off here day and night, so I sit back and enjoy the abrupt take-off and turn.
Reagan National is open 24 hours a day 7 days a week, although many ticket counters and restaurants in the airport close during off-hours. Reagan National is located within the Commonwealth of Virginia, but it has a Washington DC address to identify the airport's location more easily for travelers.
The Perimeter Rule and the High Density Rule affect flights at Reagan National. Under the Perimeter Rule, nonstop aircraft flights are limited to a range of 1,250 miles or less. In 2000, Congress permitted the FAA to allow six round-trip flights to points outside the perimeter. The High Density Rule (or "Slot" rule) limits the number of landings or takeoffs allowed in an hour. The rule affects Reagan National because of the Airport's limited airfield capacity.
Reagan National is located in Arlington County near/in Crystal City. It is most easily accessed from the George Washington Parkway. There are a good many condos and homes in the Crystal City area and they're all just a metro stop away from Reagan National. The take-off and approach to Reagan National is down the Potomac, so that area residents get very little noise or fly-over from the jets at Reagan National.
[back to top]Robert E. Lee's Boyhood Home
Robert Edward Lee, (1807-1870), was a American Soldier and a General in the Confederate Army during the U.S. Civil War. Robert E. Lee's boyhood home is now a private residence, which is listed in the National Register of Historic Places and by the Virginia Historic landmark Commission located on 607 Oronoco Street in Alexandria's famous "Old Town" district. As a private residence it is no longer open for tours by the public. However, a virtual tour is still available online.
Many historical events took place at Robert E. Lee's home including a marriage in the drawing room between Mary Lee Fitzhugh to George Washington Custis (grandson of Martha Washington). Twenty-seven years later, Mary Lee's daughter, Mary Ann Randolph Curtis married Robert E. Lee.
The home was built in 1795 by John Potts Jr., who worked with George Washington on the C&O Canal, purchased by William Fitzhugh in 1799. After his death the home was put up for rental and the Lee family rented it from 1812-1825.
The foyer included many important historical pieces, the Lee Family coat-of-arms featuring the family motto: "Not Unmindful of the Future". There are several pastels rendered by David Silvette depicting Robert E. Lee at various stages of his military career. Furnishings such as the eighteenth century grandfather clock, and Federal-style mahogany side chairs help frame portraits of Robert E. Lee and Mary Ann Randolph Custis Lee.
The dining room includes a portrait of Robert's father, Henry "Light-Horse Henry" Lee. The Lafayette Room or Drawing Room is named after Marquise de Lafayette, who was the last surviving general of the American Revolution. Lafayette toured the home as a guest of the Unites States. The Morning Room was restored in 1976 and was used as a family room because of the ample space.
The kitchen included the finest kitchen equipment of the time when built in 1795. When open as a museum the kitchen also included the Genealogy of the Lee Family printed in 1886, Genealogy Chart of Fitzhugh-Grymes Family, and Kentucky Walnut Sugar Chest.
The grand staircase has five portraits of Robert E. Lee in ten year intervals. The nursery is on the second floor landing. General Lee's room has many items used by R.E. Lee, including an antique walnut baby cradle, a baby walker, and a sheraton corner washstand.
The grounds of the home were mainly used for growing and not primarily ornamental as they are now.
The home makes an interesting stop on a walking tour of Old Town Alexandria. Old Town is home to many historical sites and stops and is a vibrant community on the Potomac just a few miles from Washington DC. Visitors and residents alike are welcomed to take the free King St. Trolley or to visit monuments such as the Alexandria Lighthouse. In addition to many historic structures in Old Town, there are modern and beautiful homes such as those found at the Duke of Alexandria and condos like those found at Port Royal.
[back to top]Stabler Leadbeater Apothecary
The Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum was opened by a Quaker pharmacist Edward Stabler in 1792 and is one of the oldest pharmacies in the country. Located on 105-107 South Fairfax Street Alexandria, Virginia in the heart of Old Town Alexandria. In addition to being a pharmacist, Stabler was dedicated to the abolition of slavery and the educational opportunities. Among other accomplishments, Stabler purchased many slaves for the express purpose of granting their freedom. Edward Stabler died in 1831, but his son continued to run the business for many years after.
This particular building served and survived through many important events in United States history such as the War of 1812. The pharmacy was of great importance during the Yellow Fever Epidemic of 1821, During the Civil War the apothecary furnished medicines for the Union. The pharmacy also served during the Spanish-American War of 1898, and World War I.
Finally, in 1933 the shop closed due to the Great Depression. At that time the contents of the shop were sold and the money that was raised was used to preserve the property as a museum. In 1939 the shop re-opened as a museum and 43 years later Stabler Leadbeater Apothecary Museum became a member on the National Register of Historic Places.
With over 8,000 objects, gold-leaf labels, hand-blown medicine bottles, pill rollers, show-globes, mortars, and pestles, the museum provides visitors with a wide, fantastic collection. The first floor is in the Gothic Revival style from 1835. The second floor names of herbs and medicine are in their original hand writing placed on the walls and shelving of the interior. The Apothecary is home to many important artifacts, journals, receipts, ledgers, and invoices, and also include many historical figures names in documents, Martha Washington, James Monroe, and Robert E. Lee.
The purpose of the Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum is to promote the history and educate people about the values of Edward Stabler. More importantly, the museum promotes a better knowledge of historic public health issues of the past. It was a center of daily life in Old Town Alexandria and as a museum the apothecary is still having an positive impact today.
Admission is $4.00 for adults, $2.00 for children. This museum is just one of the many features that make Old Town an attractive destination for tourists and a highly prized location for residents. Parking can be a hassle in Old Town, but this can be avoided by taking the Metro and the King St. Free Trolley, which stops near the museum.
[back to top]Torpedo Factory
The Torpedo Factory is a beautiful art center with six galleries, over eighty artist studios, two work shops, and the Alexandria Archeology Museum. The Torpedo Factory Art Center is located on three floors for your viewing pleasure and is one of the largest art center in the entire United States.
All this is located on the Potomac water front which is a prime location for any important cultural center. With over one hundred-sixty artists producing original works, there are many opportunities to buy one of a kind high quality works from all types of mediums including paintings, print making, jewelry, ceramics, stained glass, sculpture, and photography.
The six galleries which all are welcome to view are, Scope Gallery (ceramics), The Art League Gallery, The Target Gallery, Enamelists Gallery, Multiple Exposures Gallery (photographs), and Potomac Craftsmen Fiber Gallery.
If the mood strikes you and you would like to contribute your own artistic skills there is also classes at the Art League School. The classes can be taken for those who are over five years old, and students must be at least eighteen to enroll in the adult program.
The Archeology Museum offers a wide variety of activities such as family dig days, biking and walking tours.
Whichever you are into, paintings, sculptures, or archeology, The Torpedo Factory will have what you are looking for. It is a wonderful place for people of all ages to enjoy.
The Torpedo Factory is at the heart of Old Town Alexandria located in the midst of the Northern Virginia's most sought after real estate. Residences here have access to the Torpedo Factory and many shops and restaurants, as well as attractions such as the Lyceum. All this is connected via the King St. Trolley to the Washington Metro system.
- Torpedo Factory Condominiums --- condos at the heart of Old Town
- About Torpedo Factory Condos --- Torpedo Factory condos are near the Potomac waterfront in Alexandria VA
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