Gadsby's Tavern Museum
Alexandria commanded center stage in 18th-century America, and Gadsby’s Tavern the spotlight. The tavern consisted of two buildings—one Georgian, one Federal, dating from around 1785 and 1792, respectively. Innkeeper John Gadsby combined them to create “a gentleman’s tavern,” which he operated from 1796 to 1808; it was considered one of the finest in the country. George Washington was a frequent dinner guest; he and Martha danced in the second-floor ballroom, and it was here that Washington celebrated his last birthday. The tavern also welcomed Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, and the Marquis de Lafayette (the French soldier and statesman who served in the American army under Washington during the Revolutionary War and remained close to Washington). It was the setting of lavish parties, theatrical performances, small circuses, government meetings, and concerts. Itinerant merchants used the tavern to display their wares, and traveling doctors treated a hapless clientele (these were rudimentary professions in the 18th century) on the premises.
The rooms have been restored to their 18th-century appearance. On the 30-minute tour, you’ll get a good look at the Tap Room, a small dining room; the Assembly Room, the ballroom; typical bedrooms; and the underground icehouse, which was filled each winter from the icy river. Tours depart 15 minutes before and after the hour. Cap off the experience with a meal right next door, at the restored Colonial-style restaurant, Gadsby’s Tavern, 138 N. Royal St., at Cameron Street (www.gadsbystavernrestaurant.com; tel. 703/548-1288).
Alexandria commanded center stage in 18th-century America, and Gadsby’s Tavern the spotlight. The tavern consisted of two buildings—one Georgian, one Federal, dating from around 1785 and 1792, respectively. Innkeeper John Gadsby combined them to create “a gentleman’s tavern,” which he operated from 1796 to 1808; it was considered one of the finest in the country. George Washington was a frequent dinner guest; he and Martha danced in the second-floor ballroom, and it was here that Washington celebrated his last birthday. The tavern also welcomed Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, and the Marquis de Lafayette (the French soldier and statesman who served in the American army under Washington during the Revolutionary War and remained close to Washington). It was the setting of lavish parties, theatrical performances, small circuses, government meetings, and concerts. Itinerant merchants used the tavern to display their wares, and traveling doctors treated a hapless clientele (these were rudimentary professions in the 18th century) on the premises.
The rooms have been restored to their 18th-century appearance. On the 30-minute tour, you’ll get a good look at the Tap Room, a small dining room; the Assembly Room, the ballroom; typical bedrooms; and the underground icehouse, which was filled each winter from the icy river. Tours depart 15 minutes before and after the hour. Cap off the experience with a meal right next door, at the restored Colonial-style restaurant, Gadsby’s Tavern, 138 N. Royal St., at Cameron Street (www.gadsbystavernrestaurant.com; tel. 703/548-1288).
Details
Bookstore
Available as paperback
and as e-book.
