Alexandria’s Past
The history of the United States is deeply rooted in the history of Alexandria, Virginia. Established in 1749, Alexandria was named in honor of Scotsmen John Alexander who owned the land chosen for the city.
The site of this new settlement was selected for its strategic location on the western bank of the Potomac River, quickly turning the city into a bustling railroad center and seaport for merchants and traders.
As one of the first cities of a foundling nation, Alexandria has seen more than a fair share of the nation's conflicts. Market Square was used by George Washington for military drills in 1754. During the Revolutionary War, the city became a central hub for supplies distribution and a hospital station for wounded soldiers.
Union troops took up residence in Alexandria at the beginning of the Civil War on May 24, 1861. They remained here throughout the war, making Alexandria the longest occupied city of the Civil War. During the occupation, the city was a transportation and supply center and public spaces were turned into much-need temporary hospitals.
During this period, several forts were constructed for protection and visitors to the city can still see one of these restored forts at Fort Ward Park, one of the many Alexandria historic sites.
With its close proximity to the nation's capital, Alexandria quickly recovered from the Civil War to reclaim its place as a leading commercial center. In 1918, construction on a torpedo factory located on the Potomac waterfront began. This factory was utilized during World War I and World War II and today, has been repurposed for artist studios, galleries and museums.
Alexandria’s Present
In the last several decades, Alexandria has once again undergone a renaissance, with an influx of corporations and businesses relocating to the area and the construction of more than two million square feet of office complexes. While this city is poised to become a leading modern metropolis, Alexandria still takes pride in over two and a half centuries of intriguing United States history.
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