Edward Stabler started this family business in 1792 and it operated continuously for 141 years. The Apothecary Shop was a center in the daily life in Alexandria. Patrons included the George Washington family, James Monroe, and Robert E. Lee. When the Depression forced the shop’s closing in 1933, the doors were simply locked. The Landmark Society of Alexandria was formed to preserve the buildings and care for the collections. The Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum is listed in the National Register of Historic Places and is one of Alexandria’s few preserved commercial establishments, possessing an original collection in its original location.
The Museum’s collections include objects such as pill rollers, mortars and pestles, drug mills, carboys, and medical glassware that are still in place. The documents, journals, letters, and day books all provide a fascinating living history of the City, and the availability of the early records dating from the 1790's will provide researchers with important social and cultural information about the Alexandria community.
Renovations to the Stabler-Leadbeater Museum
The entire museum has been renovated and visitors will be allowed upstairs for the first time to view the original manufacturing room. New events and programs are also being planned.Improvements were paid for by the Landmark Society with funds raised from many organizations and individuals. The City of Alexandria provided significant funding for the restoration and additional funding was provided by the National Park Service through their “Save America’s Treasures” grant program.
Location
105-107 S. Fairfax StreetAlexandria, Virginia 22314
(703) 746-3852
See a map
Museum Hours
April through OctoberSunday and Monday, 1 to 5 p.m.
Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
November through March
Wednesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Sunday 1 to 4 p.m.
