The Alexandria Archaeological Commission (AAC) has announced Carr Properties as the recipient of the 2025 Bernard “Ben” Brenman Archaeology in Alexandria Award. The award was presented by Mayor Gaskins at the Alexandria City Council meeting on October 28, with Councilman R. Kirk McPike reading the proclamation. Alison Wertzler, Senior Vice President, accepted the award on behalf of Carr Properties.
The AAC recognized Carr Properties for its work in archaeological preservation at the site of the Alexandria Canal in Old Town North. The company collaborated with the Alexandria Archaeology division, Friends of Alexandria Archaeology, volunteers, and community members to make findings accessible to the public. Volunteers who supported the project were also acknowledged during the ceremony.
According to a city council proclamation: “City Council Proclamation: 2025 Ben Brenman Award for Outstanding Developer presented to Carr Properties.The 2025 honoree is Carr Properties for their commitment to the highest quality archaeological preservation at the site of the Alexandria Canal in Old Town North. Earlier this year, Carr Properties partnered with the Alexandria Archaeology division, the Friends of Alexandria Archaeology, volunteers, and community members to share this significant find with the public. The volunteers that supported the project were also recognized during the award presentation. Carr worked closely with the City to relocate the excavated canal stones for future use in a park. The 2025 Brenman Award for Outstanding Developer highlights the excavation, preservation, and stewardship of significant aspects of Alexandria’s seaport history, including a major segment of the fourth lock and third basin of the Alexandria Canal, built in 1845. Contributions like this enrich the lives of Alexandria residents and visitors with history, both today and for decades to come.”
The Brenman Award was established by AAC in 2007 in honor of Bernard “Ben” Brenman, a former activist and retired U.S. Army colonel who played a key role in preserving local heritage as chair of AAC for 21 years.
The award honors individuals or groups contributing significantly to archaeological investigation or education within Alexandria. Past recipients are listed online at Visit alexandriava.gov/go/1343.
The AAC is composed of 15 members appointed by City Council who set priorities related to archaeology in Alexandria and collaborate with various stakeholders across government and community sectors.
For more information about historic preservation efforts in Alexandra or details about museums and programs run by Historic Alexandria, visit alexandriava.gov/Historic.
