While Alexandria was a major slave trading center before the Civil War, some blacks lived free in the city. During the Civil War, thousands of slaves escaped and sought refuge in Alexandria, creating a refugee crisis. About 1,800 of those refugees as well as black Union soldiers were buried in what has become known as the Freedmen’s Cemetery. Forgotten then built over for many decades, the Cemetery is now a memorial park located at South Washington and Church Streets.
Learn more about Alexandria history by taking Learning Life's five question quiz:
http://letlearninglive.org/quiz/alexandria-history/
If you score an A or B on the quiz, you can enter to win a gift certificate to a participating Del Ray business. One winner will be selected each week in November and December.
Learning Life is a new educational non-profit based in Alexandria. Learning Life's mission is to nurture a wider culture of learning by spreading knowledge on the surfaces of everyday life (napkins, cup sleeves, placemats, cereal boxes, etc.), then connecting these surfaces to more learning online. In November and December, we are partnering with the Office of Historic Alexandria to help inform more people about our city's remarkably rich history. Learn more about our holiday "Buy Local, Learn Local" project, and get local discounts and deals here:
http://letlearninglive.org/buylocallearnlocal/
Plus, if you like what we do, come to Learning Life's launch party at the Lyceum at 201 S. Washington Street on Thursday, November 7, 5:30-8pm. The event is open to the public and will feature a reception followed by an Alexandria history quiz show hosted by the Office of Historic Alexandria's Director, Lance Mallamo. Quiz show winners will receive prizes. Delicious food from Caboose Café & Bakery will be served throughout the event. Suggested donation at the event: $25 per person, $40 per couple. All proceeds help advance Learning Life's educational work. To attend, please RSVP at:
https://www.greenvelope.com/event/learninglifelaunchparty