top of page

115 Prince Street (Historical Marker)

GPS Coordinates: 38.8032825, -77.0412081
Closest Address: 117 Prince Street, Alexandria, VA 22314

115 Prince Street (Historical Marker)

Here follows the inscription written on this historical marker attached to the house:

115 Prince Street
Captain's Row

George Washington's 1749 Survey shows this lot fronting the Potomac River.

The original house on this site was built in 1783. It was destroyed in the great fire of January 18, 1827, which consumed 53 houses and numerous outbuildings in Old Town.

The current brick house was built in 1853-54 on the original foundation by Frederick Vaccari, a shipping master. The house was restored in 1996.


<•>•<•>•<•>•<•>•<•>•<•>•<•>•<•>
<•>•<•>•<•>•<•>•<•>•<•>•<•>•<•>

Regarding 115 Prince Street:
Wiki Travel says that "Captains Row contains many of the oldest residences in the city, mostly consisting of Federal style houses built by wealthy merchants and sea captains. Complete with cobblestones and charming architectural details, this is probably one of the most picturesque colonial village blocks anywhere."

It was given the 1998 Preservation Award for Restoration/Rehabilitation By Historic Alexandria Foundation

On Washington's 1749 Plan of Alexandria, 115 Prince Street is in Lot 56 on this map, the triangular waterfront lot on the top left side of the marshy embayment.


<•>•<•>•<•>•<•>•<•>•<•>•<•>•<•>
<•>•<•>•<•>•<•>•<•>•<•>•<•>•<•>

Here follows an excerpt from the "Jaybird's Jottings" blog as written by Jay Roberts:

This portion of Prince Street is one of my favorites in Old Town. Sea captain’s built Federal style homes here. Today, while King Street bustles with activity, this cobblestone first block of Prince Street lies a lot more quiet.

What’s interesting about this plaque is the mention of Frederick Vaccari. Google has very little on him.

The map of the city, laid out grid style in 1749, shows the waters edge halfway up Prince Street.

As far as I could see, this is the only plaque in the block of Prince, South Lee, King and South Union. Interesting to note that 100 King does not have a plaque. This was the Corn Exchange Building, that currently is home to Red Curry restaurant.

ABOUT ME

Award-winning local historian and tour guide in Franconia and the greater Alexandria area of Virginia.

  • Facebook
  • X
  • LinkedIn
  • Amazon

ADDRESS

Nathaniel Lee

c/o Franconia Museum

6121 Franconia Road

Alexandria, VA 22310

franconiahistory@gmail.com

SUBSCRIBE FOR EMAILS

Thanks for submitting!

© 2025 by Franconia History L.L.C.

bottom of page