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Click Here for: Click Here for: Gentlemen: It has long been my intention to invest, at my death, one thousand pounds current money of this State in the hands of Trustees, the interest only of which to be applied in institution a school in the Town of Alexandria, for the purpose of educating orphan children who have no other resource, or the children of such indigent parents as are unable to give it . . . It was also my intention to apply the latter to the sole purpose of . . . that kind of education which would be the most extensively useful . . . Reading, writing, and arithmetic." The Alexandria Academy was built in 1785 as a private school for Alexandria's children. George Washington endowed a bequest of fifty pounds a year to establish a free school on the third floor. By 1825, a bad economy forced the Trustees to sell the building. Late in the 19th century the City of Alexandria purchased the structure and used it as part of the school system until 1967.
On July 11th, 1999 the Board of Trustees of the Historic Alexandria Foundation proudly announced the completion of the Academy's restoration. In the ceremony that followed, the Academy joined the ranks of other historic properties HAF has been instrumental in preserving the Lyceum, Lloyd House, Athenaeum, Carlyle House and the Boyhood Home of Robert E. Lee, to name only a few.
Historic Alexandria is a treasure trove of early buildings that creates a unique way of life for its citizens and provides enjoyment for thousands of people who visit this special community every year. As you admire Old Town houses, know that there are special responsibilities involved in maintaining the delicate balance between the realities of modern life and the perishable beauty of our architectural heritage. Each owner becomes an important link between yesterday and tomorrow, and has the privilege and obligation of preserving this heritage. The facades of these historic houses and other buildings are protected by law. Owners wishing to make exterior changes must present their plans to the city's Board of Architectural Review for approval. In the years since establishment of the Historic District and the architectural review process, many valuable structures have been saved from demolition and inappropriate alteration. The unique pleasures of living in an older building extend beyond the facade. Interior change, while incorporating modern conveniences, should preserve the original fabric and character of the building. The Historic Alexandria Foundation can provide valuable advice and assistance in this process. Founded in 1954, the Foundation is a volunteer organization that promotes interest in Alexandria s heritage through its plaque program, publications, easements and grants. |
In 1995 the City deeded the Academy to the Historic Alexandria Foundation (HAF). Since that time, HAF has worked diligently to save and restore what is viewed by many to be one of America's most historically significant structures . . . one which so eloquently underscores George Washington's personal commitment . . . "As nothing is of more importance than the education of youth, so consequently nothing can be more laudably beneficial than the association which is formed in Alexandria to effect this desirable purpose."
(George Washington to Dr. William Brown)
