The Alexandria Historic Preservation Commission is busy planning some exciting and engaging projects and events for the first few months of 2014.  We welcomed the New Year by revealing banner designs for Alexandria’s three local historic districts:  the Garden District, West End and Original Town.  The new banners feature a design that is consistent with existing National Register Historic District banners, but they display a photo of a representative building in their respective local district.  As you drive around the older parts of town, take note of a change in photo, color and historic district name on the banners.  Not only are the new banners beautiful, they also show the boundaries of Alexandria’s five historic districts and the distinct style of architecture found in each.  We hope our banners help you get better acquainted with each of Alexandria’s historic districts.  As you drive around and discover each neighborhood, you’re sure to fall in love with the beautiful and historic homes in Alexandria’s Garden District.

Whether you currently live in a historic home or dream of one day doing so, AHPC plans to make it easy for you to find resources for old-house living with our upcoming Historic House Fair.  This block-party style event will be held on March 22nd from 9:0am to 12:00noon in the 1900 Block of White Street.  At least a dozen local preservation resources will be available to help you connect with neighbors, find properties for sale or rent, research your historic house, find salvaged wood for your rehab project, identify architectural styles, and more!  Trolley Tours will feature the history of your favorite Garden District landmarks.  This family friendly event will be a fun and hands-on way to learn more about preservation. Mark your calendars now and join us March 22nd.  Check out www.alexandriahpc.org or Facebook/Alexandria Historic Preservation Commission for more details as they become available.