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

The History of the Pineapple

🍍

Photographed By Devry Becker Jones (CC0), May 8, 2022

1. The History of the Pineapple Marker

Inscription.
The pineapple has been a symbol of hospitality since the days of the early American colonies. The legend began with the sea captains of New England, who sailed the Caribbean Islands and returned to the colonies bearing their cargo of fruits, spices and rum.

According to the legend, the captain would spear a pineapple on a fence post outside his home to let his friends know of his safe return from sea. The pineapple was an invitation for them to visit, share his food and drink, and listen to tales of his voyage.

As the tradition grew, colonial innkeepers added the pineapple to their signs and bedposts carved in the shape of a pineapple were a common sight at inns across the country. The legend has continued to the present, and frequently one sees the pineapple symbol in hotels and restaurants to signal the presence of hospitality.

Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Colonial Era • Industry & Commerce • Waterways & Vessels.

Location. 38° 48.239′ N, 77° 2.416′ W. Marker is in Alexandria, Virginia. It is in Old Town. Marker is on South Union Street just north of Wales Alley, on the right when traveling north. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 104 S Union St, Alexandria VA 22314, United States of America. Touch for directions.

Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers

Paid Advertisement

Click on the ad for more information.
Please report objectionable advertising to the Editor.

Click or scan to see
this page online

are within walking distance of this marker. John Fitzgerald (a few steps from this marker); War of 1812 (within shouting distance of this marker); Alexandria Archaeology Museum (within shouting distance of this marker); River Ferries (within shouting distance of this marker); Raise the White Flag (within shouting distance of this marker); Pioneer Mill (within shouting distance of this marker); Waterfront Walk (within shouting distance of this marker); The Domestic Slave Trade (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Alexandria.

The marker stands outside of the Old Town Shop, whose marquee features two 🍍 images image. Click for full size.

Photographed By Devry Becker Jones (CC0), May 8, 2022

2. The marker stands outside of the Old Town Shop, whose marquee features two 🍍 images

Credits. This page was last revised on January 28, 2023. It was originally submitted on May 8, 2022, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia. This page has been viewed 909 times since then and 135 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on May 8, 2022, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia.