An 18th century townhouse on Gentry Row with an historic past. A four-story rowhouse updated for the active lifestyle of a modern family. A 167 year-old carriage house adapted for 21st century living. These homes and more will be on view at the 77th Historic Alexandria Homes Tour, to be held Saturday, September 22.
The walking tour runs from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and is sponsored by The Twig and the Junior Auxiliary of Inova Alexandria Hospital. All proceeds benefit the hospital’s Cardiovascular Intensive Care Unit.
This year’s walking tour highlights Old Town Alexandria’s continuing evolution as a vibrant, livable community which treasures and preserves its architectural heritage. “Living in Old Town means different things to different homeowners,” explained Candace Beane, co-chair of this year’s tour. “Behind the historic facades are interiors representing a diverse mix of decorating styles.”
Highlights of the tour include:
- General George Washington will greet guests at the former home of his life-long friend and personal physician, Dr. James Craik. The house was built circa 1786 and boasts the original heart of pine flooring as well as the original mantels and marble surrounds on five fireplaces.
- An elegant brick Victorian townhouse built in 1884 features an extensive art collection on the main floor, including a trove of African American art. A stunning flounder-style addition provides views of a two-level walled garden.
- A collection of French chandeliers and another of Chinese ethnic minority hats are displayed in a Federal townhouse built in 1803. This historic residence was home to Thomson Mason, Mayor of Alexandria from 1827-30.
- A snug carriage house built in 1851 features 200 year-old wood beams and 150 year-old heart of pine floors. A secluded brick patio provides a perfect spot for year round dining.
- A frame rowhouse once used as an office by Dr. Elisha Cullen Dick, who treated George Washington during his final illness, has been renovated to accommodate the lifestyle of an active family. A glass-walled family room and freestanding guesthouse with separate kitchen, living room and spa bath are two of several interior changes made while maintaining the historic character of the home’s exterior.
“We are grateful to the owners for opening their homes,” said Co-Chair Jennifer Kilmer. “Their generosity, and that of our sponsors and patrons, has made it possible for The Twig to raise significant funds for Inova Alexandria Hospital.”
Tickets for the tour are available now for $40 online at thetwig.org and Ramsay House Visitor Center, 221 King Street. Beginning September 4, tickets may also be purchased at The Twig Thrift Shop, 106 North Columbus Street. On the day of the tour, tickets will be available for $45 at The Twig Thrift Shop; the Athenaeum, located at 201 Prince Street; and Ramsay House.
Now in its 85th year, The Twig is a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to providing financial assistance and support to Inova Alexandria Hospital. The Twig has donated over $4 million to the hospital for a wide range of initiatives, including The Twig Pavilion, a 16-bed telemetry unit, and The Twig Surgical Center, a 24-bed post-surgical unit. For the past ten years, The Twig has also awarded scholarships to hospital staff who wish to advance in a nursing career. A current $1 million pledge will help renovate the hospital’s Cardiovascular Intensive Care Unit. For more information, visit The Twig at www.thetwig.org.
