About

Gadsby's Tavern Museum consists of two buildings, a ca. 1785 tavern and the 1792 City Tavern and Hotel. In those seven short years, the young Republic began to take shape through the conversations and choices made in these tavern spaces. The impact of these choices and how far to extend power—political, economic, and social—are still being felt today. Named for Englishman John Gadsby who operated them from 1796 to 1808, the tavern businesses were central to Alexandria's port-based economy, offering spaces to dine, entertain, and spend the night. A large, enslaved labor force made Gadsby's renowned hospitality possible. Notable patrons included George and Martha Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and the marquis de Lafayette.

Today the museum focuses on what it meant to be a tavern in the years that followed the American Revolution. People from all walks of life—male and female, black and white, free and enslaved, wealthy and working class—are reflected in the tavern's spaces. Through their stories, visitors can explore concepts of power, race, and wealth and how they shaped the nation and early American identity.

This site is a National Historic Landmark and is a part of the Office of Historic Alexandria.