

Last Wednesday I made my way north to see the French frigate L’Hermione in Alexandria, Virginia. She was worth the trip. For several years I worked in a waterfront office not far from where she was docked. Although it was several years since I last visited the area, I was glad to see little had changed. I found free street parking a half dozen blocks from the waterfront and enjoyed a short walk along the tree lined Queen Street. This street still retains many historic brick and clapboard townhouses. They are well maintained, colorful and a joy to view. If I ever lived in a city, this is the kind of place I would choose. When I got to Founders Park, L’Hermione came into view. She is magnificent.



Among the locals supporting the visit of L’Hermione were men and women of the 1st Virginia Regiment of the Continental Line, a reenacted Revolutionary War living history group. Their presence added much to the festivities. Their ability to pleasantly carry on in the heat and humidity wearing period costumes is remarkable. I talked with one couple in their colonial finery about this. They said they just get used to it just as the colonials did. These two were both history majors and just loved it, although we all did seek the shelter of a tent for a brief respite. I love these reenactors, where ever I find them.



I also stopped at the floating workshop of the Alexandria Seaport Center. I would stop here often when I worked in the area. The Center is run by the Alexandria Seaport Foundation which began to honor the maritime heritage of Alexandria's waterfront. The foundation also has several programs to help local at risk youths including a full time apprentice program and middle school programs to teach math through carpentry-based projects. If I didn’t live fifty miles away, I would be part of this.

All in all, a most enjoyable day.

TTG