On Sunday, January 19 from 10 a.m. - 1 p.m., the public is invited to view remains from an Alexandria Canal lock and basin at a site in Old Town North, discovered by archaeologists from Wetland Studies and Solutions, Inc., a Davey company. The City of Alexandria and Carr Properties have arranged for public viewing of the site, rain or shine, from the sidewalk. Visitors should meet at the Old Town North Farmer's Market, N. Royal Street, and Montgomery Street, Alexandria, to begin their tour. Archaeologists will be on hand to provide information and answer questions.

“The Alexandria Canal was a significant feature on the city’s landscape from the 1840s into the 20th century,” said Eleanor Breen, City Archaeologist. “To have the opportunity to excavate, study, and record the massive stone lock and basin walls and the wooden floor is exciting.”

Historic maps depict the fourth lock and third basin of the Alexandria Canal within the 900 block of North Pitt Street. The Alexandria Canal fully opened in 1845 for trade and navigation, linking Alexandria to the Chesapeake & Ohio (C&O) Canal at Georgetown. Ultimately, railroad transportation eclipsed the canal system and it was abandoned in 1886.

Archaeological work is contracted through developer Carr Properties and under a Resource Management Plan approved by the City's archaeology division as part of the Alexandria Archaeological Protection Code. The code requires developers to have archaeologists on site to monitor all phases of ground disturbance. This ensures that any historic features are dealt with properly so that Alexandria’s history is enriched through archaeological study.

“We appreciate Alexandria’s rich history and the importance of this archaeological discovery,” said Alison Wertzler, Vice President, Design and Construction, Carr Properties. “We are excited to share this piece of history with the public.” 

These series of locks at the south end of the canal raised and lowered canal boats by approximately 40 feet. The archaeological excavations have revealed nearly the entire length of the north wall, portions of the south wall, and the floor of the lock and basin, which were well-preserved under feet of fill and previous development. 

The active construction site will not be open to the public during the viewing, but notable elements of the site will be visible from the sidewalk, including the canal lock walls. Street parking is limited; participants are encouraged to walk, bike, or ride DASH to the viewing or park in nearby garages or lots. 

For more information about Alexandria Archaeology, visit alexandriava.gov/Archaeology.