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Founded in 1732 by Scottish merchants, Alexandria, Virginia, quickly became a thriving port on the Potomac. It was soon a social, political, and commercial center in Virginia. George Washington helped survey the town in 1749 and maintained a home in Alexandria along with many other prominent Virginians.
Today affluent Alexandria, which is only 8 miles from Washington D.C., isn't urban sprawl. It's a vibrant community with its own identity that has proudly kept its heritage as it progressed. Most of what was colonial Alexandria is now a downtown area known as Old Town which is the most popular area for tourists. Brick sidewalks and cobblestone streets add antique charm to the street scene in Old Town, a thriving district of restored 17th and 18th century residences and businesses. The 300 retail establishments are mostly owner operated specialty shops; many keep extended evening hours. Stores in Old Town intermingle with brew houses and pubs that offer lively music, food, and drink well into the night. Many types of fine dining are also available.
Ramsey House is Alexandria's oldest structure. It was built in 1724 in a nearby town and moved to Alexandria 25 years later. The original owner, William Ramsey, was Alexandria's only Lord Mayor. Today the frame structure serves as the information center for visitors to the city and is a great starting point for first time visitors. Located in the heart of Old Town, it offers information on the many area attractions and is the starting point for popular walking tours.
The east boundary of Old Town is the bustling two mile Potomac waterfront highlighted by the Torpedo Factory Art Gallery. Used as a torpedo factory during World War I and World War II, its bleak buildings blighted the beautiful shoreline until the 1980s. Now it is home to five juried galleries featuring the works of almost 200 artists. Art pieces range from $25 to $25,000 and often can be purchased directly from the artist. Weather permitting, there are several boat rides from the Potomac waterfront area, including a forty minute narrated cruise aboard the Admiral Tilp, which is a great way to enjoy this historic waterfront. The Potomac Riverboat Company offers a 50 minute cruise (each way) to Mt. Vernon, home of George Washington. The Dandy offers a super way to enjoy a sumptious dinner while viewing the Washington, D.C. skyline.
Historic sites in Old Town include Gadsby's Tavern, Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary, The Lyceum, Carlyle House, and Friendship Fire Company.
Historic Gadsby's Tavern was built in 1752 and was a favorite meeting place in 18th century Virginia. Today colonial style entertainment accompanies a bountiful meal served in an elegant dining room in the very same building that had once hosted society balls and George Washington's parties.
The Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary, which was started in 1792, operated as a family business until 1933. The original inventory of herbs, potions, and medical glassware has been preserved just as it was when George and Martha Washington patronized the shop.
The Carlyle House, a Georgian manor house which was home of Scottish merchant John Carlyle who founded the town, is open for tours.
The Lyceum, Alexandria's history museum, houses 3 centuries of history, including prints, ceramics, silver and furniture.
The Friendship Fire Company was organized in 1774. The following year it was given its first fire truck by one of its prominent members, George Washington. Today it houses hand drawn fire engines and other historic fire fighting apparatus from the 18th and 19th centuries.
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