Gadsby's Tavern Museum Society

03/09/2024

Gadsby's Tavern Museum Society is offering Orchid Table sponsorship opportunities for next month's 2024 Spring Fling on April 20 from 6:30pm to 10:00pm.

Enjoy a table one row away from the jazz entertainment for $1,250. The price includes 6 tickets and a $350 tax-deductible donation. Only three of these tables are available -- other sponsorship opportunities have already sold out!

The evening at historic Gadsby's Tavern will feature heavy hors d'oeuvres catered by Gadsby's Tavern Restaurant and a silent auction with a Spring Shower of fabulous items and memorable experiences.

All proceeds will benefit the Gadsby's Tavern Museum Society Endowment Fund, to help protect the museum and its programming long into the future.

For more information or to purchase an Orchid Table sponsorship, click here: https://www.gadsbystavernmuseum.us/events/springfling2024

02/10/2024

Come Parade with GTMS!

As is traditional at this time of year Gadsby’s Tavern Museum Society, (the world’s only marching tavern – as far as we know) is calling on Members and Friends to join in the celebration.

Haven’t you always wanted to be in a parade? Here’s your chance and your opportunity to wear your 18th-century attire or something patriotic (basically anything red, white & blue). No experience is necessary. We are planning some fun new additions to our marching regalia. Please also bring along your friends, both 2-legged and 4-legged.

If you have questions or are interested in joining us, email [email protected] so we can let you know where and when to meet us once we are given the official word what our position will be – usually someplace near the beginning of this parade. See the official George Washington Birthday Celebration site for a listing of all the other special events happening in Alexandria this month, a map of the parade route, and other useful information.

https://washingtonbirthday.com/

01/24/2024

The Gadsby’s Tavern Museum Society Requests the Pleasure of Your Company at "Teacups, Pearls, Blossoms, & Books"

Saturday, March 16, 2024
2 p.m., The Lloyd House
220 N. Washington Street, Alexandria, Virginia

This event honors our Nation’s First Ladies during Women’s History Month at an Afternoon Tea.

The tea includes a presentation and book-signing by Nancy Kegan Smith, one of the authors of Remember the First Ladies: The Legacies of America’s History-Making Women.

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit:

https://www.gadsbystavernmuseum.us/1stladiestea

04/11/2023

Join GTMS and celebrate the season at Founders and Flowers - Our Spring Fling!

Our evening of jazz - including a silent auction - will benefit the Gadsby's Tavern Museum Society Endowment Fund.

You will be welcomed to the Museum by cheerful Spring 18th- and 19th-century tunes probably familiar to many of the Founders and their families performed by Gadsby's Tavern Museum's frequent entertainers Marty and Steve.

In the Ballroom, you'll be entertained by the Yvette Spears Jazz Quorum you will be served Heavy (but Spring-like) Hors d'oeuvres. Besides beer and wine, we will be serving a themed Champagne (or non-alcoholic) cocktail.

In the Assembly Room, you can browse another superb Silent Auction and Raffle offering interesting items and experiences.

Sponsorship Opportunities offer several benefits that will last longer than one night.

Individual tickets are $125 with all proceeds going to the GTMS Endowment Fund.

For more information on tickets, sponsorships, and silent auction items, click here:

https://www.gadsbystavernmuseum.us/events/springfling2023

11/22/2022

Join GTMS on Friday, December 2nd for a special performance of "Tiny Tim's Christmas Carol," with proceeds to benefit Gadsby's Tavern Museum.

This year, LTA's holiday show is a new take on the classic tale by Charles Dickens. Tiny Tim longs to have his father home on Christmas day, but Ebenezer Scrooge won’t give Bob Cratchit the day off. There must be a way to change Scrooge’s mind – and perhaps a ghost or two will set Scrooge right! Written by Broadway’s award-winning Ken Ludwig and his son, Jack, get ready for the wildest Christmas ride you’ve ever had!

Doors open at 6:30 pm, and the performance starts at 8:00 pm.

Tickets are $25 per person, and the evening includes the opportunity to:

* Take your own PICTURES WITH FATHER CHRISTMAS (as George Washington would have known him)

* Buy RAFFLE tickets for gift-worthy baskets

* Indulge in some LIGHT REFRESHMENTS

To purchase tickets and for more information, please visit https://www.gadsbystavernmuseum.us/events/christmas-carol-2022

10/16/2022

What a fantastic evening! Thank you to everyone who shared in its success.

10/05/2022

For World Architecture Day, let's take a closer look at bricks. Have you ever noticed patterns in the brick formations on many historic buildings? These are called brick bonds + each pattern has a specific name + purpose. The front of Gadsby's Tavern is in a Flemish Bond where the long side of the brick (stretcher) alternates with the short side (header). This pattern was often used on the front facades because it was aesthetically pleasing.

10/05/2022

Gadsby's got a shout out from Money Magazine's Best Places to Live.

Two Virginia communities were listed among the best places to live in the U.S., according to a new ranking released this week by Money.

10/03/2022

Look what the Zebra, our co-host for Mystery at the Museum is saying about the event and the author behind it! And buy your tickets TODAY - they're selling like hot Tavern cakes!

09/26/2022

Some tickets remaining! Book now!

09/22/2022

Today is the 39th anniversary of the dedication of the Slave Memorial at Mount Vernon.

The Mount Vernon Ladies' Association collaborated with the Howard University School of Architecture to create this memorial in 1983.

Learn more about the Slave Memorial: https://bit.ly/2OvqYjV

09/16/2022

There's a write up about the origins of our Mystery in the Museum event on October 15th on today's Zebra Press edition. Read how it's been two years in the making - AND BUY YOUR TICKETS FOR THIS FABULOUS EVENT!

ALEXANDRIA, VA--On Saturday, October 15, the Gadsby’s Tavern Museum Society (GTMS) will host Mystery in the Museum, a two-hour interactive “Who Done It”

07/11/2022

What are these things? And how do they relate to 18th century life? Find out this summer from the Junior Docents at Gadsby's Tavern Museum! Every Sunday June 19 through Labor Day weekend from 2-5 p.m., guests will meet Junior Docents (grades 4 and older) and learn about the history of early America and *chocolate!* Don't miss the hands-on demonstration of historic chocolate making in the Ballroom. This program is back after COVID thanks to the support from American Heritage Chocolate!

07/11/2022

Did you know chocolate comes from fermented seeds known as cacao beans? At one time, cacao beans were a form of currency in Central and South America and the chocolate drink made from them was an important part of the Olmec, Maya, Toltec, and Aztec cultures. Learn this + more with the Gadsby's Tavern Museum Junior Docents. Visit the Museum from 2-5 p.m. on Sundays.

05/04/2022

Save the Date: Sept. 23- 25, 2022 and join us on a very special journey. We're going on a road - actually, rail - trip to see the Gadsby's Tavern railcar displayed in the historic crossroads town of Roanoake. Enjoy south-west Virginia with fellow Tavern friends as we visit this special dining car, the National D-Day Memorial, a winery, and much, much more! Sign up now. (You don't have to be a member but be warned, we will try and recruit you!).
https://www.gadsbystavernmuseum.us/events/swva_trip

05/01/2022

Fantastic Day in the Tavern! More news to follow. The 30th Anniversary Pearl Necklace was won by a very enthusiastic raffler. Thank you to everyone who participated. We are so thrilled that our Birthday Party was SUCH a success.

04/26/2022

Are you coming to our 30th Birthday Party? You are invited and we have these AMAZING RAFFLE PRIZES! Thank you so very much to our donors.

Two Shakespeare Theater Tickets
Lady Clare Placemats from Market Square
Platinum Jubilee Items from Buckingham Palace
Murphy's Grand Irish Pub $100
Old Town Walking Tour
Alexandria Restaurant Partners (ARP) $100
The Tall Ship Providence Foundation - Two Day Sail Tickets
AND AN AMAZING Pearl Necklace. Pearl is the symbol of a thirty year anniversay!

Sign up here! https://www.gadsbystavernmuseum.us/events/anniversary_party

Thirty years ago a small group of history-lovers joined together to find new (and fun) ways to support Alexandria's historic gem, Gadsby's Tavern Museum. To begin our year of celebrating this milestone, GTMS is planning a birthday party and you are invited!

04/18/2022

It's 30 years since we formed Gadsby's Tavern Museum. We're having a party. You are invited! Cake, bubbles and music!
Link below!

04/06/2022

Thirty years ago a small group of history-lovers joined together to find new (and fun) ways to support Alexandria's historic gem, Gadsby's Tavern Museum. To begin our year of celebrating our 30th year, GTMS is planning a birthday party in the rooms where George Washington danced and Thomas Jefferson held his inaugural dinner. And you are invited! Join us for this fun event!
https://www.gadsbystavernmuseum.us/events/anniversary

03/17/2022

We’re thrilled to announce that our Gadsby's Tavern Museum Society was awarded Third Prize in the Historical Unit category in the George Washington Birthday Parade in Old Town Alexandria on February 21! Well done everyone, you looked awesome!

03/15/2022

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZKnu0wMMBZU&t=2s

A birthnight ball honoring George Washington has been held at the tavern now known as Gadsby's Tavern Museum since the 1790s. Attendees from recent decades s...

03/10/2022

Civil War Women’s Day at Fort Ward

Saturday, March 26
Fort Ward Museum and Historic Site
11 a.m.-4 p.m. Free

In recognition of Women’s History Month, Fort Ward Museum is presenting Civil War Women’s Day on Saturday, March 26, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The program is free, and interesting for all ages.

Learn about the dress, skills and contributions of women during the Civil War from historical interpreters who will present on-going talks, displays and demonstrations. Women’s roles on the home front, in camp, and on the battlefield will be explored. Among the featured topics will be soldiers’ aid societies and relief efforts that were typically launched by women to support both armies during the war. The theme of women who disguised themselves as soldiers will be portrayed by interpreters in Union uniform who will explore the challenges experienced by the hundreds of women who served in the army. Learn how women and girls supported the war effort through industry and craft, and pursued new work roles, from the home and farm to the city and factory. Displays include 19th-century tableware, and a hands-on opportunity to learn about the everyday clothing of women and girls.

Fort Ward is the best preserved of the Union forts that comprised the Civil War Defenses of Washington. The Museum features exhibits and special programs throughout the year. Fort Ward Museum & Historic Site is located at 4301 West Braddock Road in the west end of the City of Alexandria. For more information, please call 703.746.4848.

The City of Alexandria is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, as amended. To request a reasonable accommodation or an alternative format, email [email protected], or call 703.746.4848, or Virginia Relay at 711.

02/25/2022

Gadsby’s Tavern Museum Now Accepting Junior Docent Applications

For Immediate Release February 22, 2022

Do you know a child or student who enjoys learning about history and talking about what they know? Gadsby’s Tavern Museum’s Junior Docent Program is a wonderful way to encourage their interest and enthusiasm! Students accepted into the program are trained in museum information and presentation skills. Then, they provide tours in 18th-century clothing Sunday afternoons during the summer (based on student availability), practicing their speaking skills and engaging visitors of all ages and sharing their interest in history.

Applications are now being accepted from 4th, 5th, 6th, and 7th grade students. To be considered, students must complete the application, available at alexandriava.gov/gadsbystavern and return it to the Museum no later than Friday, March 25. Applicants must also attend an audition on Sunday, March 27, where the child will have the chance to give a short presentation on a historical topic of their choosing. Application includes information about required training classes. Questions should be directed to the Assistant Director at 703.746.4739.

The two 18th-century taverns that make up Gadsby’s Tavern Museum capture the changing landscape of the early United States. Through tours, programs, and special events, learn about this complex time.

02/21/2022

Come and parade with us!

02/21/2022

We’re in the parade today! Come and walk with us. Meet from 11:30 outside Lyles Crouch School.

02/17/2022

The George Washington Birthday Parade is on Monday, February 21 in Old Town Alexandria from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. Come and march with us!

We will assemble at Division 3, spot 310 next to Lyles Crouch School (see map). Come and join us from 11.30am onwards. Dogs and period costume welcome but not necessary!

02/02/2022

Viva George - Celebrating Washington in Laredo and Alexandria
Virtual Lecture with Gadsby’s Tavern Museum on February 3
Alexandria has celebrated hometown legend George Washington for hundreds of years with parades and balls. Another city in America that has also celebrated with pomp and parade? Laredo, Texas. Learn from Dr. Elaine Peña, Associate Professor of American Studies at The George Washington University, about these extensive festivities along the border. Afterwards, Tyler Vanice, Chair of Alexandria’s George Washington Birthday Celebration Committee, will join Dr. Peña as they explore the similarities and differences between Laredo and Alexandria. Purchase Dr. Peña’s book - ¡Viva George! Celebrating Washington's Birthday at the U.S.-Mexico Border - at the Gadsby’s and Alexandria History Museum’s Shops.
The lecture will begin over Zoom at 7 p.m. Cost is $6 per person. Tickets are available through AlexandriaVa.Gov/Shop.

About Gadsby’s Tavern Museum
As America began as a nation during the late 18th century and emerged in the 19th century, Gadsby’s Tavern was the center of social and political life in Alexandria as well as the new Federal City of Washington. The tavern served as the premier gathering place for residents – including George Washington – and visitors to eat, drink, learn, and influence history. Tavern keepers John Wise and John Gadsby hosted balls, performances, and meetings, and their accommodations were known as the best by travelers near and far. Gadsby’s Tavern Museum is located at 134 North Royal Street in the heart of Old Town Alexandria and is owned and operated by the City of Alexandria. For more information, please call 703.746.4242 or visit www.gadsbystavern.org.

02/01/2022

Alexandria Celebrates George Washington on his 290th Birthday!
February 21
The City of Alexandria, Virginia, the adopted hometown of George Washington, celebrates his birthday each year with events throughout February. The highlight will be on February 21, 2022, when Alexandria residents and visitors will line the streets of Old Town Alexandria to cheer on one of the oldest and largest George Washington Birthday parades in the country. The parade features drum corps, color guards, bands, community and fraternal organizations, youth groups, local merchants, city dignitaries, and, of course, General Washington and Martha Washington. This year, the Celebration will honor Alexandria’s health care workers and first responders, who will march as Parade Grand Marshals.

For updates on events, visit www.washingtonbirthday.com, homepage of the George Washington Birthday Celebration Committee (GWBCC).

The “Cherry Challenge” is a competition among the finer restaurants in Alexandria.  Each restaurant will develop its own cherry cocktail, appetizer, entrée, and/or dessert in honor of our distinguished native son, of course! The competing restaurants and their entries will be listed on the Geo...

02/01/2022

Virtual Birthnight Banquet & Ball
Saturday, February 19
7–9 p.m.
Purchase tickets http://alexandriava.gov/Shop..
Join in the celebrations that have been ongoing for hundreds of years – General Washington’s Birthnight Ball. Gather your bubble to honor our first President over Zoom. Begin the evening with a video presentation about the history of this event and hear from those that have participated in it for years. Then meet other guests and enjoy conversation with the General, who will be available LIVE for all your questions! Lastly, enjoy English Country Dancing called by our expert Dance Master that you can do with 1, 2, 4, 6 or 8 people at home. Period costumes of the 1790s encouraged! One virtual dance class on February 17th is included. Tickets are $15 per person. A dinner from Gadsby’s Tavern Restaurant and traditional Birthnight Ball cake from Bittersweet are available for pickup with a separate purchase of $50.

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02/01/2022

“George Washington’s Alexandria” Tours
Every Sunday in February (6th, 13th, 20th & 27th)
2–4 p.m.
Free
On every Sunday in February 2022 (6th, 13th, 20th & 27th) at 2:00 p.m., you can explore historic Old Town Alexandria as George Washington knew it! This popular two-hour guided walking tour will visit sites associated with Washington and his closest colleagues, including Christ Church, Light Horse Harry Lee’s house, the Lord Fairfax home, Washington’s townhouse, Gadsby’s Tavern, Duvall Tavern, Wise’s Tavern, the Carlyle House, Market Square, Ramsay House, the Apothecary Shop, and Gentry Row. To register, visit https://www.eventbrite.com/ and search George Washington’s Alexandria.