V279: A Short Stop in Alexandria, Virginia

Ha! You thought I’d miss today’s blogpost, but here we are in Colonial Williamsburg, with wireless internet. 🙂

Alexandria explodes with quaint colonial charm.

Today was mostly spent driving from Alexandria to Williamsburg, not a short trip, and even worse with so much traffic.  We had the chance to stop off in Old Town Alexandria this morning for a quick tour of Gadsby’s Tavern, which was absolutely lovely.

In the grand ballroom at Gadsby’s Tavern – the musicians were (and still are today) elevated above the ballroom floor.  That door in back leads out into space – you need a ladder to get up there!
Gorgeous 18th century pottery.  I’m hoping to find a similar teapot here in Colonial Williamsburg, though not an antique, of course

I met two wonderful ladies, Liz and Karen, who gave us the skinny on Mr. Gadsby, and the history of the buildings.  We also took a quick whirl around the town, seeing in minutes what I would have preferred to take all day fawning over – George Washington’s townhouse, Carlyle House, and the bright blue Spite House.

Historical Dog was sighted in Alexandria, guarding the entrance to one of the utterly charming townhouses
The Alexandria Spite House – more about it here 

I suppose it’s just an excuse to come back to the East Coast sooner rather than later. 🙂

Gowns for the weekend, all hung up with care, in hopes that Prelude to Victory soon would be here…

Now we’re in Williasmburg, safely installed in our tavern rooms, and ready for a weekend of riotous reenacting fun. 🙂

5 Comments

  • Rachel

    October 6, 2012 at 4:48 AM

    I grew up in VA, and never learned of or took part in all of the fun things to do in Williamsburg. I lived maybe 45 minutes away too. Maybe if I move back to be closer to my family again one day, I'll start taking part in the fun. However, I hope you have a great time. I've really been enjoying your posts on the accessories of historical fashion (i.e.-the ostrich plumes, clocked stockings, etc.) It's definitely making me want to start doing it myself! Maybe one day……

  • Unknown

    October 6, 2012 at 8:03 AM

    It drives me mad when people say that America has no history, you only have to look at a town like this and see how beautiful it is! Great pictures! Jnaine from lesleysgirlsvintage.com x

  • Brittany_Va-VoomVintage

    October 6, 2012 at 2:04 PM

    How neat, that place looks -exactly- like my home town, historic St Charles (in Missouri). I have always wanted to go to Williamsburg. My husband went as a kid and he loved it! Thanks for sharing, have fun!! x

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