HOUSE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 920 Offered February 14, 2007 Commending Gadsby's Tavern Museum. ---------- Patrons-- Englin, Amundson, Bulova, Ebbin and Moran; Senator: Ticer ----------

WHEREAS, Gadsby's Tavern Museum is recognized for its preservation of the culture and history of 18th century American life and its commitment to play a dynamic role in the social, economic, and educational life of the citizens of Alexandria and the Commonwealth; and

WHEREAS, Gadsby's Tavern Museum, located in Old Town Alexandria, consists of two buildings, a (circa) 1785 tavern and the 1792 City Hotel and is a living history museum that features exhibits of early American life and culture, as well as the cuisine of Colonial Virginia; and

WHEREAS, the mission of the Gadsby's Tavern Museum is to teach the public about the history of the site and to preserve the two historic structures, which are graced with fine examples of period architecture, decorative arts, social customs, and clothing of the 18th century; and

WHEREAS, the Gadsby's Tavern derived its name from its proprietor John Gadsby, who leased and operated the establishment from 1796 to 1808; and

WHEREAS, Gadsby's Tavern was not the first tavern located in the historic buildings; as early as the 1770s a city tavern operated by Mary Hawkins occupied the present site; and

WHEREAS, Gadsby's Tavern was a center of political, business, and social life in early Alexandria and was the festive setting for dancing, theatrical and musical performances, and meetings of civic organizations; and

WHEREAS, many renowned early Americans visited Gadsby's Tavern and enjoyed its hospitality, including George Washington, who twice attended the Birthnight Ball held in his honor, John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, the Marquis de Lafayette, and countless other significant historical figures, as well as everyday travelers and visitors to Virginia and local residents of Alexandria; and

WHEREAS, Gadsby's Tavern Museum, supported by historical research and professional standards, provides special activities, collections, and exhibits to create a rich learning environment for Northern Virginia's residents and appreciative visitors every day; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED by the House of Delegates, the Senate concurring, That the General Assembly commend and congratulate Gadsby's Tavern Museum on its outstanding efforts to preserve the culture, history, and identity of Alexandria for its citizens and visitors to enjoy; and, be it

RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the House of Delegates prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to Gadsby's Tavern Museum as an expression of the General Assembly’s appreciation of the museum’s commitment to play a dynamic role in the social, economic, and educational life of Alexandria.