The History of Old Town Alexandria, Virginia

Incorporated in 1749, Alexandria became a bustling colonial seaport. The port was full of brigs, schooners, and ships that engaged in international and coastal trade. At the time of the American Revolution, Alexandria was one of the principal Colonial trading ports. A city of abundant history, Alexandria was the host to our founding father George Washington who lived at nearby Mt.Vernon. Robert E. Lee, born in Alexandria, became President of the south during the civil war. Today Alexandria offers a unique quality of life combining the charm and ambiance of Old Town. Being a vibrant business community on the shore of the Potomac River, the city overlooks the panoramic view of the U.S. Capitol across the river. Alexandria is full of Historic attractions and Museums. Old Town offers hundreds of antique and gift shops, exquisite art galleries, and numerous restaurants serving an array of local and international cuisines. www.funside.com

Attractions The Torpedo Factory Art Center is located on the Potomac River in Alexandria. The Art Center has been in existence for more than 25 years in a converted building constructed in 1918 for the manufacturing of torpedo shell cases. The factory now serves as a working studio for more than 150 artists-painters, sculptors, jewelers, etc. Visit their website at www.torpedofactory.org. Historical sites include the Friendship Fire House, Gadsby's Tavern Museum and Fort Ward Museum & Historic Site. http://ci.alexandria.va.us/oha/oha.html You can tour the restored 18th-century Gunston Hall Plantation which was the home of George Mason, author of the Virginia Declaration of Rights and the America's first Bill of Rights. Gunston Hall is an outstanding example of Georgian architecture with elaborate interior woodwork. Http:GunstonHall.org Visit George and Martha Washington's home at Mount Vernon overlooking the Potomac River. Experience our First Presidents' colonial life at Mount Vernon. www.mountvernon.org Across the Potomac River is one of the most important cities in the world. Washington D.C., our Nation's captial, provides unique sights and attractions not found anywhere else in the world. From the U.S. Capitol and the White House to the Monuments and Museums, the city provides a panoramic view of the sights and sounds of the nations capital. www.washington.org The Smithsonian, which is located in Washington D.C. and one of the largest museums in the world, is composed of sixteen museums and galleries and the National Zoo. www.si.edu Back to Top