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

Historic Alexandria

Photographed By J. J. Prats, August 6, 2005

1. Historic Alexandria Marker

Inscription. Alexandria was named for the family of John Alexander, a Virginia planter who in 1669 acquired the tract on which the town began. By 1732, the site was known as Hunting Creek Warehouse and in 1749 became Alexandria, thereafter a major 18th-century port. George Washington frequented the town; Robert E. Lee claimed it as his boyhood home. From 1801 to 1847 Alexandria was part of the District of Columbia, and was later occupied by Federal troops during the Civil War. By the 20th century it had become a major railroad center. In 1946, Alexandria created the third historic district in the United States to protect its 18th - and - 19th century buildings.

Erected 1997 by Department of Historic Resources. (Marker Number E-86.)

Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Colonial Era • War, US Civil • Waterways & Vessels. In addition, it is included in the National Historic Landmarks, and the Virginia Department of Historic Resources (DHR) series lists. A significant historical year for this entry is 1669.

Location. 38° 48.275′ N, 77° 2.536′ W. Marker is in Alexandria, Virginia. It is in Old Town. Marker

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is at the intersection of King Street and North Fairfax Street, on the left when traveling east on King Street. Marker is on the grounds of the Alexandria Visitor's Center, facing the street. It is two blocks from the foot of King Street, on the Potomac River. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 221 King Street, Alexandria VA 22314, United States of America. Touch for directions.

Other nearby markers. At least 5 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. The Ramsay House (here, next to this marker); a different marker also named The Ramsay House (a few steps from this marker); Col. John Fitzgerald (a few steps from this marker); Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum (a few steps from this marker); The Lynching of Benjamin Thomas (within shouting distance of this marker). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Alexandria.

Also see . . . Historic Alexandria Foundation. (Submitted on December 31, 2005.)

Additional commentary.
1. King Street Shopping
King Street is lined with shops and restaurants for the 15 or so blocks between the Metro and Amtrak Stations and the river. It usually gets quite lively and festive between Washington Street and the river.

There is on-street parking and various parking garages and lots.

Ramsay House, Alexandria's Visitor's Center image. Click for full size.

Photographed By J. J. Prats, August 6, 2005

2. Ramsay House, Alexandria's Visitor's Center

Originally built in the 18th century by William Ramsay, a Scottish merchant and city founder.

A free bus runs up and down King Street between the Metro station and City Hall, which is three blocks from the river, to encourage visitors to come by Metro, the Washington Metropolitan Area subway system.

— Submitted December 31, 2005.

The Shipbuilder image. Click for full size.

Photographed By Tom Fuchs, February 23, 2006

3. The Shipbuilder

Sculpted by Michael Curtis. Dedicated to the City of Alexandria November 5, 2004. This bronze is in Waterfront Park, on The Strand between King and Prince Streets.

Waterfront Park image. Click for full size.

Photographed By Tom Fuchs, February 23, 2006

4. Waterfront Park

Looking towards the corner of The Strand and Prince Streets.

The Potomac River at Waterfront Park image. Click for full size.

Photographed By Tom Fuchs, February 23, 2006

5. The Potomac River at Waterfront Park

Corporal Charles W. Hill, Sr. Memorial Tablet image. Click for full size.

Photographed By Tom Fuchs, February 23, 2006

6. Corporal Charles W. Hill, Sr. Memorial Tablet

February 22, 1949 – March 22, 1989. An officer of the Alexandria Police Department slain in the line of duty. Corporal Hill's love and devotion to duty witnessed throughout thirteen years of service were second only to his love and devotion to his family, wife Virginia, and sons Charles, Jr. and Robert. This memorial stands in honor of Corporal Hill and those other officers who have fallen before him in service to this community. The supreme sacrifice made by each of them will never be forgotten. May our thoughts and prayers be with them, their families, their friends and the dedicated officers who continue to serve and protect this city. This monument is in the small park at the foot of King street.

Credits. This page was last revised on April 19, 2023. It was originally submitted on December 31, 2005. This page has been viewed 3,689 times since then and 67 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on December 31, 2005. 3, 4, 5, 6. submitted on March 12, 2006, by Tom Fuchs of Greenbelt, Maryland.