Old Town’s Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum (105-107 S. Fairfax Street) is a fascinating place, and the Office of Historic Alexandria is looking for volunteers to help show it to visitors.
The museum contains a collection of medicinal herbs, shop furnishings, apothecary pottles and more that are largely original to the 141-year-old family business. The museum tells the story of medicine and business as they evolved in Alexandria. The museum has a collection of journals, letters, diaries and more — including a note from Martha Washington.
The museum also features a variety of special themed tours, detailing everything from the herbs referenced in the Outlander books/show to a tour of poisons.
“The Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum, part of the Office of Historic Alexandria, is recruiting volunteers to lead guided tours,” the City of Alexandria said in a release. “Training begins August 26 with an in-person workshop, continues with virtual evening classes, and wraps-up with a second in-person workshop on September 30. Participants will end the series ready to complete their tour certification.”
Volunteers are needed for both weekends and weekdays, particularly on Sundays and Mondays. Tour guides are required to host at least one four-hour shift per month.
Applications to become a guide at the museum are available online.