Everyday I meet people who are brand new to Northern Virginia. People often move to Northern VA because of jobs. They come here to work at the Pentagon, or in Washington DC. I see many new clients for the USPTO in Alexandria or from Fort Belvoir. Tysons Corner is a hub of technology. Because of the many employment opportunities and because of the pleasant nature of the city of Alexandria, Alexandria often and consistently rates as one of the nation's best cities. If you're brand new to the area, it's hard to know where to start when looking for a home or residence. I find that a primer on the neighborhoods of Alexandria is helpful. From there, my clients drill down into specific residences.
Old Town (sometimes called Olde Town, Old Towne or Olde Towne) is in my opinion the heart of the city. As the name implies, Old Town is the oldest part of Alexandria, a port in colonial times. Old Town Alexandria is found along the Potomac, just inside the Woodrow Wilson Bridge and then north toward Reagan National Airport. Old Town is served by the King St. Metro and the King St. trolley. With over 100 restaurants, shops, boutiques, coffee shops, ice cream houses and more, Old Town has both a small town, upscale and touristy feel. For most folks there is a bit of prestige attached to an Old Town address. There are two high rises near the waterfront at the Alexandria House and Port Royal. Old Town Alexandria has many townhouses, row houses and a smaller number single family homes.
Although its history doesn't stretch to the colonial days, Del Ray is another old neighborhood. Del Ray was founded in 1894 as a "streetcar suburb" to Washington, DC. Most of Del Ray was built from the 1890's to the 1950's and retains that small town charm despite being so close to the center of the universe. Quaint steets with brick or stone homes are found on streets that branch off from Del Ray's arteries. At the heart of Del Ray is the main street: Mount Vernon Avenue. This where you'll find a hometown mix mix of shops, restaurants and hardware stores. Braddock Road metro serves Del Ray and condos such as Colecroft Station are available here.
As the name implies, Arlandia is at the border of Alexandria City and Arlington County. Arlandia is just north of Del Ray at terminus of Mount Vernon Avenue. Some residents also call this neighborhood Chirilagua. Arlandia has many small shops and restaurants.
The Eisenhower Valley describes the area found along Eisenhower Avenue. At the western end of Eisenhower Avenue one will find warehouses and businesses such as FedEx and UPS who appreciate easy access to the Interstate. But as Eisenhower Avenue approaches Old Town, you'll find the United States Patent & Trade Office and the high-end high-rise neighborhood of the Carlyle District. The USPTO is a complex of five buildings that accommodate more than 7,000 federal employees. Residents of the Carlyle District have easy access to the Hoffman Town Center at the Eisenhower Metro. The Carlyle District is an intriguing place to live because it's so close to the charm and amenities of Old Town, but is new and modern.
Like the Eisenhower Valley, the West End of Alexandria is a mixed bag. Condos and high rises abound in "Condo Canyon" near Landmark and Lincolnia. But development from the 1950's and 1960's is also found tucked on side streets and around unexpected corners. The homes around and near Seminary Road are regarded by many as stately and highly desirable. Another interesting neighborhood in the West End is Cameron Station. Cameron Station is a newer development of townhouses and condos, but the stylings and architecture imitate the best of Old Town. Cameron Station is relatively close to both Landmark Mall and Old Town.
The West End is well connected to Washington DC via I-395. The West End is the newest and largest part of the city. The West End has a diverse selection of restaurants and shops as well as Landmark Mall and several fine hotels. Fort Ward Park and Museum is found in the West End of Alexandria.
African Americans have been an important part of the Alexandria's history and vibrant community back to the city's founding in 1749. Both as slaves and as free men, African-Americans have contributed to the city's tapestry of life benefiting the community of Alexandria with rich economic and cultural contributions. Alexandria was a key city during the US Civil War and though Robert E. Lee is one of the city's sons, the city was quickly occupied by the Union and remained in Federal hands through-out the war.
After the war the city was segregated but a defining moment in the history of segregation in Alexandria occured in 1939 when five young African-American men staged a "sit-in" at the city's segregated Queen Street Library. The young men brought focus to the issue of the inequality of educational opportunities and as a result Alexandria built the Robert Robinson Library in 1940. This library was used by African-Americans until desegregation in the early 1960's. Today, that structure is a foundational element of the Alexandria Black History Museum.
Alexandria Black History Museum
902 Wythe Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
Phone: (703) 838-4356
Fax: (703) 706-3999
In time, additional sites were added to the museum. At the eastern bound of the Carlyle District one will find the Alexandria African American Heritage Park. Next door to the Museum, the Watson Reading Room houses a non-circulating collection of books, videos, documents, and periodicals on African-American life and culture.
The African American Museum is a source of pride for all Alexandrians. The museum has a calendar of events and rotating exhibits, so check back even if you have already been to the museum. From Benjamin Banneker in Alexandria's earliest days, to Dr. Albert Johnson to Samuel Wilbert Tucker during the Civil Rights Movement, Alexandria is a focal point in that courageous and audacious journey that led to the diverse, vibrant and prosperous Alexandria of today.
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:
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
The Carlyle District is home to more than 2 million square feet of office space (existing or under construction) for the USPTO alone.
Bringing 7,000 employees and 700 visitors a day to the site, the U.S. Patent & Trademark Office is single-handedly driving enough demand to fuel the creation of an office submarket in Alexandria. The 76.5-acre master-planned Carlyle development is designated a Coordinated Design/Development District (CDD), meaning design and development standards are already in place for the allocated 7 million square feet of office, hotel, residential, and retail space, allowing for faster approval of final plans.
Carlyle is within walking distance of the King Street Metro station and the Amtrak/Virginia Railway Express station, and is one of Northern Virginia's most convenient and accessible business locations.
The Carlyle District is home to more than 2 million square feet of office space (existing or under construction) for the USPTO alone.
Bringing 7,000 employees and 700 visitors a day to the site, the U.S. Patent & Trademark Office is single-handedly driving enough demand to fuel the creation of an office submarket in Alexandria. The 76.5-acre master-planned Carlyle development is designated a Coordinated Design/Development District (CDD), meaning design and development standards are already in place for the allocated 7 million square feet of office, hotel, residential, and retail space, allowing for faster approval of final plans.
Carlyle is within walking distance of the King Street Metro station and the Amtrak/Virginia Railway Express station, and is one of Northern Virginia's most convenient and accessible business locations.
DASH (Driving Alexandrians Safely Home) buses are seen around, across and near the city of Alexandria, Virginia. The City of Alexandria wholly owns the DASH bus system and operates the system as a non-profit public service cooperation. But day to day management of the system is provided by Alexandria Transit Company.
If you're new to the area, you'll soon find out what others already know. The DASH buses are a clean, safe and effective way to get about the city. Boarding the bus is simple and easy. When the bus arrives, just step into the bus and then deposit the exact fare or use your WMATA SmarTrip card.If you have any questions about routes or transfers ask the driver and then take a seat. On some of the most popular routes or during rush hours, there might not be any available seats. In that case just move as far to the rear of the bus as possible. This makes it easier for others to board easily.
Be aware that the bus driver doesn't always stop at all bus stops! To signal to the driver that your stop is approaching, press the yellow signal strip or pull the bell cord. It's best to do this about a block from your destination so the driver has timely notice to stop at the next bus stop. When exiting the bus the rear door is easiest because others may be waiting to board through the front door.
DASH has great service because it has great employees but also because area passengers observe a few simple rules of safety and courtesy:
To maintain the high level of quality offered by DASH, drivers may refuse service to anyone who does not observe these rules or to anyone whose behavior is disruptive or hazardous to vehicle or passenger safety.
The manager of the DASH system, the Alexandria Transit Company (ATC), has been chosen by Metro Magazine as one of the top ten transit systems to work for in the United States. Metro Magazine identified the the top transit agency employers in the U.S. and Canada by survey employees from around the country. Alexandria Transit Company exhibit traits that are great for any employer:
Metro Magazine is quoted saying, "the ability of transit systems to attract, hire, and retain top candidates to their organization hinges on their willingness and desire to become employers of choice in their communities." In the Washington area, where there is a significant amount of competition in transportation jobs, Alexandria Transit has worked hard to be that employer of choice.
General Manager Sandy Modell graciously commented on the achievement, "DASH prides itself on providing the highest level of customer service possible to its riders and its employees. If we treat our employees with respect and appreciation, they are more likely to treat our external customers with that same respect and appreciation."
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
Many think the George Washington Masonic Memorial is one of the most important memorials we have in the United States of America. Locals call the monument the Masonic Temple or more rarely the Alexandria Lighthouse. The building is located near the King St. Metro.
George Washington was more then just the first president of the United States, he was a man who promoted righteous virtues , a willing nature to fight for his beliefs. As one of our founding fathers, George Washington built this country with his vision of what America should strive to be.
The George Washington Masonic Memorial is a tribute to George Washington the man and the mason. Thus, the building reflects the democratic principles of George Washington by referencing the architectural style of ancient Rome and Greece. The edifice appears as a lighthouse, mimicking the architecture of the ancient Lighthouse of Alexandria. And high atop Shooter's Hill it dominates the Alexandria Skyline. But inside the building are many interesting rooms and site.
There are nine different floors in the edifice, each offering something different to the public. The first floor is the Grand Masonic Hall which can be used for lectures and meetings. The entire tower is supported by 8 granite Doric columns.
Also located on the first floor is the Shrine Exhibit. The Shriners of North America is an international fraternity which supports the Shriners Hospital for Children. The Shriners core beliefs are brotherly love, truth, relief, and fun. With over 375,000 members world wide, the Shriners have made a tremendous positive impact in children's lives for many years. The Shrine exhibit dates back to 1876 and depicts Presidents of the Shrine fraternity, 191 Shrine Temples, and one wall in the room symbolizes the pilgrimage to Mecca and the Shriners striving for perfection.
The "Shriners Hospital for Children" Room commemorates the work of Shriners every where in support of the Shriner Hospital for Children. In this room, there is a large white statue of a Shriner holding a little girl in the left arm and holding her crutches in the right hand. This room also houses an animated model of the Shriner parade.
The Independent Square Room, also on the first floor, contains a replica of Independence Square which is located at the Philadelphia Shriners Hospital.
The building's first floor is home to the George Washington Memorial Theater. This grand theater provides a wonderful setting for cultural events and still includes and original painting of George Washington painted by Hattie Elizabeth Burdette over looking the center of the stage.
Among other things, the second floor is home to the Alexandria-Washington Lodge No. 22 and home of Andrew Jackson Lodge No. 120. (I've actually visited both of these lodges as I am a member of the nearby Pride of Fairfax No. 298.) The Replica Lodge Room is a replica in every detail from 1802, paintings, furniture, and so on. There is also Washington's bedchamber clock which is set at the time 10:20pm, Dec. 14th, 1799, the precise time of his death.
On the second floor, the Memorial Hall features a large bronze statue of Washington, a mural on the north wall shows George Washington and his troops at Christ Church in Philadelphia. On the south wall is another mural dating to September 18th 1793, laying the cornerstone of the United States Capitol.
The third floor has the Grotto Exhibit---a social organization of Master Masons. The initials M.O.V.P.E.R. (The Mystic Order of Veiled Prophets of the Enchanted Realm) are displayed over a single chair.
The fourth floor has the George Washington Museum which displays, paintings, relics, prints, and historical documents. Another impressive statue of Washington towers in the museum.
The fifth floor takes us to the Royal Arch Exhibit which includes a painting by Allyn Cox of ruins of Kings Solomon's Temple. Also, a reproduction of the Ark of the Covenant.
The higher the floor, the smaller the floor, so the higher floors contain less attractions. This is very noticeable on the highest floors. On the sixth floor is the Memorial Library, available only by appointment. It contains over 20,000 volumes Masonic works.
The seventh floor which contains several murals depicting Masonic lessons based on the Old Testament. (A detail from one of these murals is shown here.) The eigth floor is home to the Knights Templar Chapel which allows people to reflect and pray.
The ninth floor has the Tall Cedars Exhibit. This includes a model of King Solomon's throne and temple. This level overlooks the city of Old Town Alexandria in a spectacular fashion. The observation deck provides a 360 degree view of Alexandria.
The George Washington Masonic Memorial provides the public with a rich history of George Washington, and gives a window to view his life through. Anyone who ever plans to visit Alexandria must see this interesting memorial.
The Carlyle District and homes in Old Town enjoy spectacular views of the Memorial as do some of the residences at Jefferson Manor, the Midtowns, Hunting Creek Club, the Huntington Club and Montebello.
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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.
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James M. Duncan (1897-1967), born in Alexandria. He was long term serving Alexandria City Councilman and member of the Library Board. After his death in 1967 it was proposed that the Del Ray branch be named in Duncan's honor. The James M. Duncan Library continues to serve the Del Ray community of Alexandria.
Newly renovations have expanded the library to 5,000 square feet, naturally adult reading area, and new children's reading section.
The James M. Duncan Library was the first building in Alexandria with a "green", or ecologically friendly, roof. It acts as an insulator by reducing the indoor temperature during the summer season. Also by using vegetation and soil it reduces rain water to sewer run off and naturally filters the water.
Every summer James M. Duncan branch offers children fun, exciting, and educational programs with a variety of functions. The SummerQuest programs is for ages 6-12. SummerQuest Junior is for ages infants to five years old.
Hours: Monday-Thursday 9am-9pm
Friday 9am-6pm
Saturday 9am-5pm
Closed Sundays
James M. Duncan Branch Library
2501 Commonwealth Avenue
Alexandria, VA 22301
(703) 838-4566
The Barrett Library was built in 1937 and named after Kate Waller Barrett (185?-1925), to honor her memory as a humanitarian, social crusader, and political reformer. Mrs. Barrett was a very accomplished woman who received an her M.D. from the Women's Medical College of Georgia in 1892. Dr. Barrett opened a home for unwed mothers in 1893 with the financial aid of Charles Crittenton. By 1909 there were over 90 homes and national headquarters in Washington D.C. DR. Barrett also was involved in veterans' relief, women's suffrage, and the restoration of the Arlington Mansion.
The library has undergone renovations and expanded its facilities in 1995. The Foundation Center at Barrett Library collaborates with the Alexandria Library to strengthen the nonprofit sector with the appropriate knowledge about U.S. philanthropy and training for its patrons.
The Barrett Branch also offers the SummerQuest children's programs and "Let's Talk Books" a Barrett book discussion group held every second Wednesday of each month at 7pm.
Hours: Monday-Thursday 9am-9pm
Friday 9am-6pm
Saturday 9am-5pm
Sunday 1pm-5pm
Kate Waller Barrett Branch Library
717 Queen Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
(703) 838-4555
Luckett Field is a 5.6 acre baseball/softball field near the intersection of Duke St. and Wheeler. Part of the grounds is dedicated to the Luckett Field Skate Park.
The skate park is frequented by children and adults of all ages and is considered a safe-family friendly park. The park is styled as a street course with lots of different rails. There are several quarter pipes, a 6-7 foot halfpipe. In addition to several different sized banks, there is a pyramid, kicker ramp, grind box, manual pad, and ledges. The park also has a big 3 stair set. There is no bowl.
There is no admission to the park. This park doesn't require pads, but I recommend them.
The skatepark is open seven days a week beginning at 9 am. The hours are seasonal, so the park will close at 5 pm through March. Skaters must be 6 years old to use the skatepark, and those under age 10 must be accompanied by an adult.
The park lies in the shadow of the George Washington National Masonic Memorial (aka the Alexandria Lighthouse, the Masonic Temple) in Alexandria. The skyline of Carlyle is visible from the park. There are many upscale (and a few downscale) neighborhoods very close by.
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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 1. We serve buyers, sellers, renters and landlords.
[back to top]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]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.
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.
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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.
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On the Potomac waterfront in Old Town Alexandria is a warehouse type structure where torpedoes were built in the 20th century. Today, the Torpedo Factory is a beautiful art center with six galleries, over eighty artist studios, two work shops, and the Alexandria Archeology Museum. TheTorpedo Factory Art Center has three floors comprising one of the largest art centers in the entire United States.
With more than 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. Artists here produce
The Torpedo Factory is separated into galleries
The Torpedo Factory is also home to 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.
The Torpedo Factory is at the heart of Old Town Alexandria locatedin 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.
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Founded in 1995, the U.S. Patent & Trademark Office Museum serves the public need to understand the importance intellectual property, including patents, trademarks, copyrights, and trade secrets. As you might imagine, intellectual property effects nearly every aspect of our daily life. The musuem also underscores some of the innovations that have aided mankind by improving medicine, motor vehicles, and modern technology. The museum encourages and promotes future inventors to strive for excellence in invention.
If you're looking for the latest and greatest inventions get to the museum before Labor Day. Until then, twenty-five of the best inventions of 2007 can be viewed at the Modern Marvels Exhibit.
Art of Invention - Invention of Art Exhibit includes 70 works that serve a practical purpose. The first section is dedicated to inventors who pursued (or were inspired by) beauty. The section section of this exhibit features inventions that were a major factor and importance in science and industry. A few of these inventions are a part of both groups. For example the Hubble Space Telescope is an important scientific machine of discovery, but it also takes beautiful pictures of space. The museum also showcases inventions from throughout history chronicling some of the important steps we have taken in innovation.
The museum would not be complete without its own invention. The USPTO Museum features a new system of video LED strip monitors. These can be arranged at will by changing display captions. In 2005 this innovative way to display content in a museum was issued its own patent.
The USPTO museum is open Monday through Friday from 9 am to 5 pm; on Saturday from noon to 5 pm. The USPTO museum is closed on Sundays and federal holidays.
For metro riders, the USPTO is best accessed by the King St. Metro on the Yellow Line. The museum is located at the atrium of the Madison Building of the US Patent & Trademark Office at 600 Dulany Street which is on the periphery of Old Town, near the King St. Metro, in the Carlyle District. The Carlyle District is home to many upscale condos which have views of the USPTO, the Alexandria Lighthouse and more. For information about these condos in Alexandria please contact Will Nesbitt of Condo 1 of Alexandria.
[back to top]Here's a quick list of popular neighborhoods in Old Town.
Abingdon Row[back to top]
Alexandria House
Arch Hall
Backyard Boats
Baggett Tract
Bashford Lane Cluster
Bearings South
Braddock Lofts
Braddock Place
Brocketts Crossing
Burges Square
Cameron Mews
Canal Place
Canal Way
Carlyle Square
Carlyle Towers
Carriage Works
Cavalier Homes
Clover
Colecroft
Colecroft Station
College Park
Courts
Dempsey
Fords Landing
Fort Ellsworth
Glenmore
Harbor Terrace
Hearthstone Mews
Hunting Creek
Jefferson Homes
Lee Mews
Liberty Row
Marina Towers
Mt Vernon Const Co
Nethergate
North Old Town
Old Town
Old Town Alexandria
Old Town Greens
Old Town Village
Old Towne
Parker Gray
Parker Gray Historic
Pommander Walk
Porto Vecchio
Potomac Greens
Potowmack Crossing
Prescott Condominiums
Quaker Hill
Rivergate
Riverton
Seminary Walk
Shad Row
Shuters Hill
St Asaph Square
Stonell\clover
Swann daingerfield
Taylor Run Pkwy
The Condominiums At Carlyle Square
The Royalton
Thomas Shelton Estate
Tobacco Key
Torpedo Factory
The Condominiums at Carlyle Square
Virginia Village
Watergate of Alexandria
Westover
Wheat & Suters
Wilkes Corner
Yates Gardens
If you want to know all the stats and details about your condo or your potential purchase you'll find these links useful. Tax records, real estate opinions and more information:
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