[Archived] Apothecary Museum Celebrates Harry Potter’s Birthday, Wednesday July 31, 2013

Experience the real-world behind J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter

Wednesday, July 31, 2013, 6 - 9 p.m.
Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum, 105-107 S. Fairfax Street

Alexandria’s Apothecary Museum, located at 105-107 South Fairfax Street, is celebrating Harry Potter’s birthday on July 31 with special tours from 6 - 9 p.m.  This Apothecary, where “potions” were mixed and sold for 141 years, is full of thousands of curious objects, herbs and remedies! Their elixirs may not have promised luck to the user, but many were considered “cure-alls” in their time.  Visitors will discover the uses for Dragon’s Blood, Unicorn Root, Mandrake Root and other mysterious but powerful plants during their tour as they encounter the real-world counterparts to Harry Potter’s world. 

Entrance fee is $6 per person at the door.  Program is for all ages; adult groups are encouraged to visit during the latter half of the program.  In addition to the tour and take-home activity book, local stores Hooray for Books and the Sugar Cube will be providing fun games and hands-on activities as well Harry Potter-related merchandise.  Visitors can also stop by the Christmas Attic, located at 125 S. Union Street, for more birthday fun! 

The Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum in Old Town Alexandria is noted for its outstanding collection of medicinal herbs, shop furnishings, apothecary bottles and equipment, many still in their original location. It also has a spectacular collection of archival materials, including journals, letters and diaries, prescription and formula books, ledgers, orders and invoices. The names of famous customers appear in the documents, including Martha Washington, Nelly Custis, and Robert E. Lee.

For more information about the Apothecary Museum, visit www.apothecarymuseum.org  or call 703.746.3852.