Although many locals might not even know it exists, the American Horticultural Society’s River Farm is a local treasure found right here in South Alexandria. Situated about five miles south of Old Town, the park boasts Potomac River views, scenic gardens, the historic Manor House with local artist exhibits, picnicking space, pet-friendly (on leash only) walking paths, horticulturally related educational programs and events, and opportunities to rent the parkland or house for private events.
The society’s website offers an excellent overview of the farm’s rich history. Discovery of Native American artifacts on the land—including an arrowhead “at least 4,500 years old”—speaks of the farm’s early residents. Thousands of years later it became home to English settlers who eventually sold it to George Washington in 1760, adding to the northern part of Mount Vernon. Subsequent owners included Quakers who purchased it in 1845 from Washington’s descendants with the hope of demonstrating how farming could be profitable without slaves—a truly noble cause.
The farm changed hands a couple of more times, but when the Soviet Union tried to purchase the land in 1971, the Department of State asked the owner to hold off. That made it possible for the Horticultural Society to purchase it in 1973.
The park is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is free, but the society requests donations upon entry. To learn more about its history, upcoming events, and amenities, see the society’s website: ahsgardening.org.
Angela Logomasini and her husband Christopher Prawdzik are licensed Realtors® with Samson Properties in Alexandria. Operating as D.C. Region Real Estate, they serve the Virginia, Washington, D.C., and Maryland real estate market and offer comprehensive real estate services, including 4½% full-service listings.
