Alexandria Archaeology is excited to share the completion of the new Alexandria Waterfront Documentary study by historian Dr. Abby Schreiber. This study is the first of its kind to compile deed research on the waterfront blocks and parcels from Oronoco Street to Duke Street. The study provides researchers with key documentary sources organized by block to inform future studies and archaeological investigations.

In the full report, readers can dive into the micro-historical details of how early residents built new land in the shallows of the Potomac River to create a thriving waterfront. Visitors can access a companion online StoryMap, which highlights the contributions of women and enslaved and free Black people to the City’s waterfront development.

“This report represents a major milestone in documenting the City’s history. Dr. Schreiber’s research reveals stories that have not yet been told, for example, about the role of women as landowners along the waterfront,” said Dr. Eleanor Breen, City Archaeologist.

The study is part of the larger Waterfront Flood Mitigation project supported by the Department of Project Implementation. The report and StoryMap, in addition to other information, can be found on the project’s webpage.

For media inquiries, please contact the Office of Communications & Public Information at newsroom@alexandriava.gov or 703.746.3969.

For reasonable accommodation or an alternative format, email historicalexandria@alexandriava.gov or call 703.746.4554, Virginia Relay 711.

This release is available at alexandriava.gov/go/5367. 

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