Resources for Educators

The Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum offers a variety on-site programs, from special tours to hands-on activities to lectures, throughout the year. The programs can be tailored to meet the specific needs of your group. Many require advance registration and some are scheduled only a few times a year, so be sure to check the Calendar of Events and contact the Curator of Education to make your reservation today.

School Programs

The Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum collection spans the 18th through 20th century and is a rich teaching tool for exploring specific periods of history or examining how medicine has evolved. Our most popular school program introduces students to colonial medicine and trades and we work with each teacher to ensure the field trip fits his or her class and curriculum. Many schools choose to combine this 45 minute program with a tour of another museum. For more information about visiting multiple sites in Alexandria, visit scheduling a multi-site program.

• Reservations are required.
• Length of program: Each program is 45 minutes long.
• Maximum Group Size per program: 24 students. (Larger groups should consider scheduling a multi-site program.)
• Cost: $2 per student payment due upon arrival with a minimum charge of $30 per tour day. Alexandria City Public Schools admitted free of charge!
• Up to five adults admitted free; additional adults $3 each
• Accessibility: Please notify us of any special needs so we can best accommodate all of your students. The Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum welcomes all students and can create the best, most inclusive experience if notified in advance. The museum does not have handicap access to the second floor, but will work closely with visiting teachers to make the program as accessible as possible to all visiting students.

Adult Programs

Group tours are offered by reservation at the special rate of $3. In order to receive the group rate, tours must include 10 or more people and be scheduled at least two weeks in advance of the tour date. Groups may also schedule a special after-hours tour for $5 per person, minimum $100 charge.

For smaller groups, you may be interested in booking our special Behind the Counter tour. This 1.5 hour tour allows you to go behind the barriers and take an in-depth look at the Apothecary and objects usually not on display. Cost is $15 per person, with a maximum of 8 people; minimum charge of $80. Reservations are required and should be booked at least one month in advance.

Homeschool Programs

Homeschool families and groups are welcome to schedule a school or daycare program (minimum payments and reservation requirements still apply) or visit the museum for a walk-in tour during regular museum hours. We also offer internship and volunteer opportunities for students 14 and older. To volunteer, download an application and return it to the museum care of the Curator of Education.

Camp and Daycare Programs

Daycares and camps can explore the museum’s large collection of curious objects, from poison bottles to dragon’s blood, examining both the production and use of the medicines sold at the Apothecary. This approximately one-hour program includes a make-and-take activity where the kids can practice the skills of an Apothecary apprentice. Cost is $5 per child (minimum of $30) with up to 5 adults admitted free. Recommended for students grades 2 and up; maximum of 20 children. History camps sponsored by local museum and historic societies receive a discount. Tour times available weekday mornings or afternoons.

Scout Programs

Scouting groups interested in experiencing history first-hand will enjoy the programs at the Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum. The Museum offers events, such as Wonders of Science and the Civil War-era Apothecary on certain Saturdays throughout the school-year. Pre-registration is recommended for these events. With at least two weeks notice, groups can also schedule a private tour of the museum, choosing from the daycare or school programs or working with the Curator of Education to design your own visit.

Special Needs

Groups with special needs can call in advance to arrange a program and work directly with the Curator of Education to ensure your Museum experience fits the needs of all in your group. The buildings are multi-level and do not have elevators; however, if notified when scheduling the program, adjustments can be made to include all to the best of our ability. Sign language and foreign language interpreters may also be available if requested at least two weeks in advance when making your reservation.