Hi! I'm Snuggles, the West Highland White Terrier.  I'm the officially unofficial mascot of the 2008 Convention.  I belong to your convention chairman, Dee.  During this year I will be taking you on a tour of Old Town Alexandria and the DC area. So check back regularly! Woof!

 

Old Town Alexandria

Introduction

The 2008 GerardButler.Net U.S. Convention will be held in Alexandria, Virginia, located only 8 miles from our nation’s capital, Washington, DC.  The site of our convention will be in a section of the city named Old Town, a picturesque district which combines the delightful charm of an 18th century town with the modern conveniences of a 21st century metropolitan city.

When you visit Old Town, you will travel through the Timeline of our nation’s history.  You will be able to tour the same places where the seeds of the American Revolution were planted. Gathering places such as Gadsby’s Tavern, were the center for not only social occasions but also were the meeting place where George Washington and Thomas Jefferson met and where George Mason drafted the Fairfax Resolves calling for an end to trade with England.

You will be able to tour the Lee-Fendall House, Robert E. Lee’s boyhood home, where Revolutionary War hero “LightHorse” Harry Lee settled his family.  The Custis-Lee Mansion, where Robert E. Lee, General in Chief of Confederacy Forces, lived prior to the Civil War, is now part of Arlington Cemetery and offers a breathtaking view of our nation’s capital.

You may wish to drop in at the Torpedo Factory Art Center, where torpedoes were manufactured for World War I.  In 1974, the nearly abandoned building was transformed into an arts cultural center and now houses working artists’ studios and galleries.

In 1999, Alexandria celebrated its 250th anniversary.  While building on its storied past, Alexandria looks toward the future with its newest feature—free wireless Internet (WiFi) access outdoors in Old Town.  Today Alexandria is nationally recognized for its abundance of 18th and 19th century architecture, chic boutiques, national retail stores, fine art and antique galleries, historic attractions and award-winning restaurants.

While attending the 2008 GerardButler.Net U.S. Convention, the Middle-Atlantic Gerard Butler Tarts (MAG Tarts) hope you enjoy the wealth of historic and attractive attractions while you travel the timeline of Old Town Alexandria.

History

The roots of Alexandria date back to 1669 when Scotsman John Alexander purchased the land that was to become the city for 6,000 pounds of tobacco and cask.  In 1749, prominent landholders and businessmen, led by Scotsmen John Carlisle and William Ramsay, petitioned the Virginia Assembly to establish a town called Alexandria, in honor of John Alexander.  George Washington, first president of the United States, not only lived nearby in his beloved home of Mt. Vernon (which you will have the option to tour on Sunday, April 6), but was a mainstay of Alexandria society.  He often dined at Gadsby’s Tavern (where our Friday Night Meet and Greet will be held), and worshipped at Christ Church.

On July 18, 1774, Alexandrians approved patriot George Mason’s Fairfax Resolves, a document that called for an end to trade with England.  The Revolutionary War broke out in 1775.  Many Alexandrians, including George Washington, participated in this war.  After America gained its independence, Alexandria grew by leaps and bounds becoming a bustling seaport trading town.

The Civil War of the United States exacted a demanding toll from Alexandria.  Its strategic position so close to the nation’s capital caused it to be occupied by Union troops one day after Virginia seceded from the Union on May 24, 1861. Two thirds of its population fled the city, which remained under Union control for the remainder of the Civil War.

In 1918, Alexandria was called upon once more to contribute to another war, the First World War, when the Naval Torpedo Factory was built along the shores of the Potomac.  In 1940, the Factory was reactivated for World War II, where nearly 6,000 factory workers kept the factory open around the clock.  In 1974, this factory was turned into the Torpedo Factory Art Center which now houses retail stores that offer for sale unique arts and crafts items.

Alexandria has the honor of being the third city in the United States to be named as a Historic and Old District by the U.S. Congress—specifically its Old Town section (where our official convention hotel, the Radisson Hotel Old Town, is located).

Attractions

Some of the places you may wish to visit in Old Town Alexandria and its vicinity are:

Carlyle House Historic Park,121 N. Fairfax Street (www.carlylehouse.org).  A Georgian Palladian manor house built in 1753 by Scottish merchant and city founder John Carlyle.  Tours are available on the hour and half hour Tuesday through Saturday from 10-4 and on Sunday from noon until 4 p.m.

Christ Church, 118 N. Washington Street (www.historicchristchurch.org).  This beautiful English country-style church was built between 1767 and 1773 and was attended by George Washington and Robert E. Lee.  Tours are available Monday-Saturday from 9-4 p.m and Sunday from 2-4 p.m. with Sunday morning and evening worship services.

 Gadsby’s Tavern Museum, 134 N. Royal Street (www.gadsbystavern.org).  Mr. Gadsby's establishment was a center of political, business, and social life in early Alexandria.  The tavern was the setting for dancing assemblies, theatrical and musical performances, and meetings of local organizations. George Washington enjoyed the hospitality provided by tavern keepers and twice attended the annual Birthnight Ball held in his honor.  Other prominent patrons included John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, and the Marquis de Lafayette.  Open Tuesday through Saturday from 10-5 and Sunday and Monday from 1-5.

George Washington Masonic National Memorial, 101 Callahan Drive (www.gwmemorial.org).  This magnificent structure honors mason George Washington and was inspired by the Alexandria, Egypt, Lighthouse.  It displays a heroic, 17-foot bronze statue of George Washington and Washington artifacts.  Open daily 10-4.

Ramsay House Visitors Center, 221 King Street (www.funside.com) Named for William Ramsay, Scottish merchant and city founder.  Stop by for discounted attraction passes; pick up maps of Old Town and the City and brochures on Civil War history and local architecture.  Open daily from 9-5.

Torpedo Factory Art Center, 105 N. Union St. (www.torpedofactory.org).  Constructed in 1918 for the manufacturing of torpedoes, the factory now features 84 working artists’ studios, six galleries, the Art League School and Archaeology Museum.  Open daily from 10-5.  **Visit one of our convention sponsor's studio there -- Betty Grisham -- Studio 17**

George Washington’s Mt. Vernon, End of George Washington Memorial Parkway (www.mountvernon.org).  The beloved estate of our first president, George Washington. Visitors may tour the Mansion house and more than a dozen outbuildings including the slave quarters, kitchen, stables, and greenhouse.  The Donald W. Reynolds Museum and Education Center and the Ford Orientation Center include 25 new theaters and galleries that tell the detailed story of George Washington's life. More than 500 original artifacts, eleven History Channel videos, and immersion theater experiences illuminate the remarkable story of the first American hero.

Guests may also wish to visit the George Washington Gristmill and Distillery located just 3 miles south of Mount Vernon.  In 1797, Washington's Scottish farm manager, James Anderson, encouraged him to build a whiskey distillery adjacent to the gristmill. The distillery was the largest in America, producing 11,000 gallons of whiskey in 1799, making it one of the most successful economic enterprises at Mount Vernon.

 

Tours and Recreation

Old Town Alexandria has a myriad of tours and recreational activities for our convention guests to enjoy, including river cruises, carriage tours, and walking trails.  We have listed a few of our favorites below:

1.    Potomac Riverboat Company, on the waterfront at Cameron and Union Streets (www.potomacriverboatco.com).  Behold the splendor of America’s monuments and the city of Washington aboard a narrated cruise on the Potomac River.  Stops at Georgetown where you may enjoy shopping and dining in the area’s unique establishments, and reboard a later cruise  Cost is $24 for an adult roundtrip ticket with departures every 2 hours from 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

2.    Dandy Restaurant Cruise Ships, Zero Prince Street (www.dandydinnerboat.com).  Gourmet dining, dancing and an unparalleled view of our nation’s majestic monuments.  Day or night, rain or shine year ‘round.  Nina’s Dandy features a 465-square foot marble dance floor and 3,700-square foot outer deck for dancing under the stars.

3.    Olde Towne Horse and Carriage.  Travel around Old Town as they did in George Washington’s era.  Impromptu carriage rides begin at corner of King and Lee.  Hours of operation are subject to weather conditions.

4.    Wheel Nuts, 302 Montgomery Street (703) 548-5116.  This full service bike shop offers both bike rentals and sales.  Open 7 days a week all year.  **One of our generous convention sponsors**

5.    Alexandria Heritage Trail, (703) 838-4399.  Explore the archeology and history of this unique 22 mile-urban trail.  An 80-age guide book is available at Ramsay House Visitors Center.

6.    Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail (703) 838-5005.  The trail includes historic sites such as Mount Vernon, Civil War sites, waterways, scenic vistas and more.  A brochure is available at the Ramsay House Visitors Center.

 

Shopping

If you like to shop ‘til you drop, then you are coming to the right place.  Old Town Alexandria has many shopping establishments from unique award-winning boutiques to trendy arts and crafts stores and even a doggie bakery.  One of the biggest malls on the East Coast is located an hour’s drive from the city.  Some of our favorites are listed below:

Boutiques

1.    Diva, 116 S. Pitt Street (703-683-1022).  This unique consignment shop features both new and almost new women’s designer clothing, shoes and accessories by such well-known designers as Prada, Chanel, Gucci, Burberry and many more.

2.    Imagine Artwear, 1124 King Street (www.imagineartwear.com).  Contemporary clothing, jewelry and crafts by American artists.  One-of-a-kind limited editions and custom orders.  Winner of Top 100 Retailers of American Crafts Award.

3.   King's Jewelry, 609 King Street (703-549-0011) (http://www.kingsjewelry.net/). Fine jewelry, specializing in high standards of beauty, quality, integrity and great value.

Children’s

3.    Why Not?, 200 King Street (703-548-4420).  This children’s store, located in the heart of Old Town, offers a wide variety of children’s clothing, toys, books and thingamajigs to captivate all.  Stop by the shop that delights the very young and the young at heart.

Crafts

4.    A Show of Hands, 2204 Mount Vernon Avenue (703-683-2905).  Handmade local art, including paintings, photography, pottery, jewelry, fabrics and more.

5.    Elder Crafters of Alexandria, Inc., 405 Cameron Street (703-683-4338).  Fine handcrafted gifts made by seniors.
Gifts/Specialty

6.    Arts Afire Glass Gallery, 1117 King Street (www.artsafire.com).  Featured in American Style magazine.  Features contemporary American crafts, including jewelry, pottery, turned wood, and kaleidoscopes.

7.    The “Original” Christmas Attic, 125 S. Union Street (www.christmasattic.com).  Located on a cobblestone street on the oldest street in town, this shop has so many treasures tucked inside of it you may have a hard time leaving!

8.    The Irish Walk, 415 King Street (www.pattroysirishpub.com).  This delightful shop is as Irish as a shamrock.  Everything here is authentic, from Avoca capes and mohair throws to Aran Handknit sweaters, shamrock and Celtic ties.

9.    The Virginia Shop, 104 S. Union Street (www.thevirginiashop.com).  You will find the finest selection of traditional Williamsburg and Delft mementoes plus an eclectic mix of Virginia’s famous peanuts, books, clothing, award-winning wines, and gourmet foods in this store.

Jewelry

10.    Gold Works, 1400 King Street (www.goldworksusa.com).  Custom designs plus an extensive selection of charms in silver and gold inspired by Alexandria’s sites.

11.    The Silver Parrot, 113 King Street (www.silverparrot.com).  Old Town Alexandria’s favorite jewelry store for over a quarter of a century!  This unique shop contains an extensive collection of handcrafted jewelry for every taste and budget.

Pet Boutiques

12.    Barkley Square Gourmet Dog Bakery & Boutique, 1 Wales Alley (www.barkleysquarebakery.com).  Take back to your doggie homemade, all-natural treats and cakes or casual wear from designers such as Chewy Vuitton and Jimmy Chew.

Shopping Malls

13.    Landmark Mall, 5801 Duke Street (www.landmarkmall.com).  Located right off I-395 with 120 stores, including Lord & Taylor, Macy’s and Sears, plus a food court and Ruby Tuesday’s.

14.    The Fashion Centre at Pentagon City Mall, 1100 South Hayes Street, Arlington, Virginia (http://www.simon.com/mall/default.aspx?ID=157).  This trendy mall is also located right off I-395 with 170 fascinating stores and restaurants, including Macy’s, Nordstrom, the Banana Republic, Coach, Swarovski Crystal Gallery, and Talbot’s, plus a food court and Ruby Tuesday’s.

15.    Potomac Mills Mall, 2700 Potomac Mills Circle, Prince William, VA (www.potomacmills.com).  A huge outlet stores mall.  Potomac Mills features hundreds of the best names in retail including Polo Ralph Lauren Factory Store, Brooks Brothers Factory Store, Nautica, Banana Republic Factory Store, Ann Taylor Factory Store, bebe, Nine West Outlet, and Nordstrom RACK all offering the latest fashions, gifts, electronics, or dining options.

Dining

You will be able to dine in some of the best award-winning restaurants in the area with delectable cuisines from all around the world.  We have listed below some of our favorites:

1.    100 King, 100 King Street (www.100king.com).  This upscale-casual restaurant showcases innovative dishes and an eclectic wine list inspired by the Mediterranean Rim Countries.

2.  Bilbo Baggins, 208 Queen Street (www.bilbobaggins.net).  A cozy local gathering place with delicious food, unusual wines and beers and friendly service.  Voted DC’s Premier Wine Bar.

3.    Bohio’s Cuban Bistro, 1026 King St. (703-299-8886).  This restaurant features authentic Cuban cuisine, including Ropa Vieja, Picadillo Cubano, Pan con Bistec, and, of course, Mojitos.

4.    Bugsy’s Pizza Restaurant & Sports Bar, 111 King Street (703) 683-0313.  Great pizza in the heart of Old Town.

5.    Chart House, One Cameron Street (www.chart-house.com).  Located right on the waterfront.  Enjoy spectacular views of the Capitol and the Potomac River while you dine on delicious seafood, succulent steaks and so much more.

6.    Daniel O’Connell’s Irish Restaurant, 112 King Street (www.danieloconnells.com).  O’Connell’s is a modern Irish restaurant in an ancient Irish setting.  It is salvaged from monasteries, churches and castles in Ireland and features Irish hospitality and a large selection of fine wines and whiskeys.

7.    Geranio Ristorante, 722 King Street (www.Geranio.net).  For over 30 years, Geranio has combined excellent service with refined modern Italian cooking cuisine and a Wine Spectator award-winning wine list.

8.    King Street Blues, 112 N. Saint Asaph Street (www.kingstreetblues.com).  This “Best Little Roadhouse on the Planet” serves Comfort Food with a Southern accent.  Try award-winning ribs, slow-smoked pork or chicken, po’ boys and salads.

9.    Mai Thai, 6 King Street (www.maithai.us).  Mai Thai is conveniently located on the Alexandria Waterfront where you may dine on authentic Thai cuisine while enjoying spectacular views of the Potomac River.

10.    Murphy’s Irish Pub, 713 King Street (www.murphyspub.com).  Old World Irish Pub featuring a beautiful roaring fireplace.  Dine on Fresh Salmon, Fish and Chips and Irish Stew while enjoying live Irish entertainment.

11.    Taverna Cretekou, 818 King Street (www.TavernaCretekou.com).  Dine at this lively restaurant where dancing with the waiters and breaking plates are traditions.  The Taverna boasts regional and classic Greek cuisine.

Getting Around Old Town

Walking

You may easily reach many of Old Town’s attractions by simply walking from the convention hotel, the Radisson Hotel Old Town, to the King Street shopping and dining district.  After 2 p.m., we suggest you take the free hotel shuttle to and from the King Street shopping and dining area.

Driving

Two-hour metered parking is available along many of the Old Town city streets.  We suggest you go to the Ramsay House Visitors Center, 221 King Street and obtain a free 24-hour parking proclamation.  The passes are valid at two-hour metered spaces only and only to non-Alexandria residents.  Alternatively, you may wish to park at one of the many public parking garages in the area but be aware this can be very costly.

Taxis

Old Town Alexandria is serviced by several taxicab companies, all of which can be obtained by the hotel’s concierge.  Simply alert the front desk that you wish to take a taxi and they will take care of the rest!

Buses

DASH, Alexandria’s local bus system, provides service to various locations and historical sites within the city and serves all of Alexandria’s Metro stations.  The Route 4 bus line stops right in front of the convention hotel and will take you to the King Street shopping and dining district as well as the King Street and Braddock Road Metro stations.  It only costs $1 each way to ride the DASH buses.  Additionally, during weekends, there is a free to ride DASH About Weekend Shuttle, which travels from the King Street Metro station to Old Town’s Market Square (and all the great shops, restaurants, galleries and attractions in between).

Metrorail Subway System (Metro)
The Metro system serves Old Town Alexandria via the King Street and Braddock Road Metro stations.  The Metro system is one of the safest subway systems in the world and is the easiest way to reach the Washington DC sites and monuments.  A $6.50 Metro One Day Pass enables unlimited travel on all lines all day on weekends and after 9:30 a.m. on weekdays.