Alexandria, Virginia — The American South (Mid-Atlantic)

Living History

By Devry Becker Jones, March 30, 2018

1. Living History Marker

Inscription. Click to hear the inscription.

Discover the spirit of Alexandria that has been making history for well over two centuries

Founded in 1749, Alexandria was the center of commercial and political activity for early patriots such as George Washington as the seeds of the American Revolution were being sewn. The childhood home of Robert E. Lee and a headquarters of the slave trade, Alexandria became a Union stronghold at the onset of the Civil War. Later, the Alexandria Library was the stage for the nation's first civil rights sit-in, which was organized by Samuel W. Tucker in 1939.

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Explore Alexandria's picturesque cityscape and historic harbor, once a thriving seaport in the 18th and 19th centuries, and today the gateway to hospitality.

Experience history through festivals and events celebrating Alexandria's Scottish heritage and America's diverse cultures throughout the year.

A Leader in Preservation

The area known today as Old Town Alexandria was established as the nation's third historic district in 1946, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is designated

By Devry Becker Jones, March 30, 2018

2. Living History Marker

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a National Historic Landmark. Old Town, Parker-gray, and five other historic districts make Alexandria one of the best preserved American cities, known for its abundance of 18th and 19th century architecture.

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Discover Alexandria's story through its historic attractions, lively arts, and the people who recreate America's legacy for all to share.

Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: African Americans • Architecture • Civil Rights • Colonial Era • War, US Civil • War, US Revolutionary. A significant historical year for this entry is 1749.

Location. 38° 48.31′ N, 77° 2.362′ W. Marker is in Alexandria, Virginia. Marker can be reached from North Union Street south of Cameron Street, on the right when traveling north. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 2 Cameron Street, Alexandria VA 22314, United States of America. Touch for directions.

Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Visiting Old Town (here, next to this marker); Engin Artemel (a few steps from this marker); The Civil War Comes to Alexandria (within shouting distance of this marker); Plundered! (within shouting distance of this marker); Alexandria (within shouting distance of this marker); Torpedo Factory Art Center / United States Naval Torpedo Station (Building Two)

By Devry Becker Jones, March 30, 2018

3. Living History Marker

(within shouting distance of this marker); Torpedo Factory Art Center (within shouting distance of this marker); Submarine Screw (Propeller) (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Alexandria.

Credits. This page was last revised on April 17, 2020. It was originally submitted on April 1, 2018, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia. This page has been viewed 169 times since then and 18 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3. submitted on April 1, 2018, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia. • Bernard Fisher was the editor who published this page.