Honor The Memory Of The Female Stranger At Gadsby’s Tavern Museum

Celebrate the anniversary and honor the memory of the Female Stranger's death at Gadsby's Tavern Museum. The event will be held on October 14, 2019 and it will feature great local beers and a four course meal while learning the history surrounding the death of the Female Stranger. The Port City Brewery has crafted a special beer called the Long Black Veil Beer which was inspired by the famous tale of the Female Stranger. The Female Stranger died tragically at the Gadsby's Tavern on October 14, 1816. The event is for ages 21 and over.Continue reading

Gadsby’s Tavern in Old Town Alexandria

Old Town Alexandria is famed for its quaint historical atmosphere. Englishman John Gadsby operated a tavern here from 1796 to 1808. In those days, the tavern was the hub of political, business and social circles in Alexandria. Thus, Gadsby's Tavern is an important part of the 18th Century heritage of today's Old Town Alexandria.
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Gadsby's has been a landmark in Alexandria since colonial days.
Today Gadsby's Tavern Museum is located on Royal Street, a few blocks from route of the King St. trolley. Admission is only $4 for adults and $2 for children. Children under 11 are FREE when accompanied by a paying adult. The museum consists of two buildings, a ca. 1785 tavern and the 1792 City Hotel. While in operation, the tavern was the setting for dancing assemblies, theatrical and musical performances, and meetings of local organizations. Prominent patrons such as George Washington, John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, and the Marquis de Lafayette are part of the history of Gadsby's. At the tavern you can journey back to the 18th-century in a place where famous historical figures and everyday people dined and slept. The museum helps educate today's generations about the history, architecture, decorative arts, social customs, food, and clothing of the 1700's. There is a restaurant still in operation in the building. The tavern can be rented for weddings, banquets and any meeting where linen tablecloths and a post-colonial setting are appreciated. Please note some tour times are not available due to special events at the museum.  Please call in advance or check the online calendar for more information.