The Office of Historic Alexandria announced on Apr. 8 that Freedom House Museum will host a “Remember the Pearl” weekend on April 11 and 12, offering special programs and free admission for visitors who mention the event. The activities commemorate the historic attempt by 77 enslaved people, including Mary and Emily Edmonson, to escape from Washington, D.C., in 1848.
The event highlights a significant moment in U.S. history when individuals sought freedom through collective action. The commemoration aims to foster reflection on social resistance and its relevance today.
During regular museum hours at Freedom House Museum, located at 1315 Duke Street in Alexandria, docent-led discussions will explore the history of the Pearl escape attempt and its impact. On Saturday, April 11 from 10 – 11 a.m., a public conversation titled “Framework for Social Resistance” will take place. This session uses the Edmonson sisters’ story as an example of historic resistance while Earl Yates of Shiloh Baptist Church’s Social Justice Ministry provides contemporary perspectives drawn from his experience with international development organizations such as Peace Corps and USAID.
Admission is typically $5 per adult and $3 per child aged five to twelve; however, City of Alexandria residents always receive free entry. For this weekend only, anyone mentioning “Remember the Pearl” at entry will also be admitted without charge.
Alexandria’s museums enhance community identity by interpreting local social and cultural history according to the official website. The city maintains several sites documenting African American heritage such as the Alexandria Black History Museum as noted on its website. Racial and social equity are incorporated into city policies to promote fair outcomes for all residents per official information.
Alexandria operates under a council-manager form of government where City Council selects an operational manager according to city sources. As an independent city within defined boundaries, it provides services for residents, businesses, and visitors according to municipal information. Archaeological research is supported through partnerships coordinated by the Alexandria Archaeological Commission as described online.
For more details about accessibility or language services during museum visits or events, contact Nicole Quinn or email LanguageAccess@alexandriava.gov.
