ALEXANDRIA BLACK HISTORY MUSEUM 703-838-4356 www.alexandriava.gov/BlackHistory
638 N Alfred Street, Alexandria, VA 22314
DIRECTIONS: Take I-95 exit 1-B (Old Town), Turn right on Franklin St., left on Alfred Street.
GENERAL DESCRIPTION: The Alexandria Black History Museum documents the contributions of African Americans to Alexandria's history and culture from 1749 to the present. The building that today houses the Center was constructed in 1940 as the Robinson Library, the African American community's first public library. The Watson Reading Room is a non-circulating research repository focusing on issues of African American history and culture. The Center offers exhibitions, lectures and special events throughout the year.
PARKING: On-street parking or free parking across Wythe Street, in the parking lot behind the Charles Houston Recreation Center. Nearby ramps well marked.
TYPES OF PATHS TO OR AROUND ATTRACTION: Paved sidewalk and driveway. Paths accessible to persons with mobility disabilities. Length of paths 75 ft.
ENTRANCE: Museum entrance in front, library entrance in back and front. Ramp provided. 1 entry door, 36 in. wide, easily opens in with pull handle located 30 in. above floor.
PUBLIC REST ROOMS: Located in museum behind registration desk. Doors 35 in. wide, open in. Turns to enter. Accessible stalls have 34 in. wide doors opening out, and handrails. 19 in. toilet seat height, 9 in. between commode and wall. Sink height 34 in. Wrapped pipes. Accessible stall checked regularly for obstructions. Rest rooms are identified by a raised figure with pants or skirt on door to designate men or women.
SPECIAL SERVICES:
For guests with visual disabilities, there are documents in large print on non-glossy surface.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Hours: Tue - Sat 10-4, closed Sun & Mon. Closed: New Year's Day, Easter, 4th of July, Thanksgiving, Christmas, Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday. Admission fee. Brochure available to guide walking tour of African American historic sites in Alexandria.
The Museum’s gift shop offers a wide variety items relating to the African American experience. Patrons are able to find gifts suitable for all ages and interests. Books, CDs, DVDs, postcards, note cards, jewelry, presidential memorabilia, ornaments, toys and games are available for purchase.
Offers group tours of the museum. Contact the Tour Coordinator at 703.746.4356, one month prior to your visit. Maximum tour capacity for the museum is 50 people.
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