Historic Alexandria announced on Mar. 26 that specialty tours will return to the Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum this spring, offering visitors a chance to explore early medicine, botanical remedies, and historical curiosities at 105–107 S. Fairfax Street.
The tours provide opportunities for residents and visitors to learn about the city’s medical history and its cultural significance. The programs aim to engage the community by presenting unique aspects of Alexandria’s past through interactive experiences at one of its notable historic sites.
Three themed tours are scheduled: ‘Outlandish Apothecary’ on March 29 and April 12 focuses on herbal medicines featured in popular culture such as Outlander, exploring the role of women in eighteenth-century medicine; ‘Poisons at the Apothecary Museum’ on April 4, 11, and 18 examines various poisons historically used at the site; while ‘A Magical Apothecary’ on April 26 connects botanical science with inspirations from Harry Potter’s world, including a potion-making activity for children accompanied by adults. Tickets can be purchased online for $15 per person or $12 for Office of Historic Alexandria members. Proceeds support local museums.
The Office of Historic Alexandria preserves and shares city history through eight museums, archives, archaeology projects, exhibits and public programs. “Through powerful storytelling and confronting the City’s past, Historic Alexandria enriches the present and inspires the future,” according to information provided in their announcement.
Alexandria’s museums help strengthen community identity by interpreting local social and cultural history according to the official website. The city also maintains institutions like the Alexandria Black History Museum that document African American heritage as noted on its official website. Racial and social equity is incorporated into city policies with an aim toward fair outcomes per city sources.
Alexandria operates under a council-manager government structure where a manager oversees operations selected by City Council according to its official site, providing services within defined boundaries as an independent city according to official information. Archaeological research is conducted in partnership with agencies, institutions, and residents through efforts led by bodies like the Alexandria Archaeological Commission as described online.
For reasonable disability accommodation or translation services related to these events or other programs offered by Historic Alexandria, contact details are available via email or phone as listed in their announcement.
