Celebrate Virginia Archaeology Month in Alexandria With Free Events and Tours

By Daniel Lee

Alexandria, VA – Each October, the Virginia Department of Historic Resources recognizes the role archaeology plays in understanding our shared past. Alexandria has a long history of archaeological stewardship built on decades of community-based archaeological efforts. In 1989, City Council adopted one of the first archaeological protection codes in the country. Under the code, the City of Alexandria’s Archaeology division recovers, preserves, and studies the layers left behind as the city grows and changes. This work is done in partnership with residents, the Alexandria Archaeological Commission, and the many volunteers who come together to serve as stewards of our city’s history.

This year, Alexandria Archaeology will highlight the city’s buried history with events and free programs throughout the month. Learn how archaeologists have worked with descendants and historians to interpret and preserve the Frederick Douglass Memorial Cemetery with a free open house from 10 a.m. to noon on Saturday, October 3, or grab a ticket to the Contrabands and Freedmen Cemetery Tour from 1:30 to 2:30 on Sunday, October 11. Both projects show what can happen when a community cares and when descendants’ voices are heard.

Remember field trip day? Relive that feeling on Friday, October 9, with an archaeology-themed Grown-Up Field Trip focused on 19th-century sugar processing in Alexandria. No need to get a permission slip signed, but you will need to snag a ticket to the 6:30-8 p.m. program while they last.

If you prefer early mornings, meet Alexandria Archaeology and research historian Dr. Greg Beaman at the Old Town Farmers’ Market between 7 a.m. and noon on Saturday, October 10, to discover the latest research into City Hall and Market Square. This research includes the stories of enslaved and free Black people whose lives intersected with the block. You can read the detailed documentary study of the block before the recent renovation or view the associated StoryMaps at alexandriava.gov/go/7216.

Finally, you can help celebrate individuals and groups that have made significant contributions to the archaeology of the city. The annual Ben Brenman Award will be presented by the Alexandria Archaeological Commission during the City Council Meeting on Tuesday, October 13.

Join the celebrations by attending any events and programs this month or by visiting the free Alexandria Archaeology Museum on the third floor of the Torpedo Factory Art Center, 105 North Union Street. The museum is open Tuesday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Saturday, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.; and Sunday 1 – 5 p.m. Find exhibits highlighting some of the over 260 registered sites in the city, including hands-on activities for adults and children alike. A full schedule of the month’s events can be found at alexandriava.gov/Archaeology.