About

Gadsby's Tavern Museum Society


GTMS was formed in 1992 as a 501c3 charity (54-1627745 ) private citizens' group designed to provide on-going support for the preservation, development and interpretation of Gadsby’s Tavern Museum, one of Alexandria's 18th Century gems. Over the years our support of the Museum has taken many forms, including:

  • Giving annual gifts which have become increasingly substantial including:

    • Reproduction items for the Museum when period tavern pieces are not available (bed hangings, window treatments)

    • Improvements to help operations of the Museum (shelving for the Shop, items for the Docent Lounge)

    • Funding for advertising Museum events and facilities

  • Advocating on behalf of Gadsby’s Museum in Alexandria City budget or other debates

  • Providing financial support to Museum programs

    • Ceramic Exhibits

    • Pre-Visit Education Packages

    • Historic Hauntings

    • 18th Century Fairs

  • Promoting the Museum and its activities by:

    • Marching in 18th century attire in the George Washington's Birthday, Scottish Christmas Walk and St. Patrick’s Day parades

    • Providing speakers for a Speakers’ Bureau to tell the Gadsby's story

  • Organizing fundraising campaigns to help the Museum with major purchases and improvements

    • 1993: the Get Hooked on Gadsby’s campaign helped the Museum buy authentic 60 brass coat hooks for the ballroom

    • 1994-1998: a development campaign raised over $35,000 for new Curtains for the Ballroom

    • 2007 - present: major renovation campaign to restore the Tavern's unique urban Ice Well.

    • 2021 - present: the Endowment Campaign

  • Helping to insure that the Tavern continues to be a living institution by holding functions in the rooms where George Washington and Thomas Jefferson once dined, such as

    • The Best Bib & Tucker Balls (Black & White, Cherry Blossom, Mardi Gras, Speakeasy, etc.)

    • Murder Mystery Nights

    • Masquerade and other themed events


Our Bylaws are the official documentation for the Gadsby's Tavern Museum Society.


GTMS relies on the support of its Members, especially our Patrons, Benefactors & Life Members