Alexandria resident Tim Rose has published a book called "George Washington and Alexandria: A Founding Friendship." Rose sent out a letter about his news Tuesday:
I will never forget the first time I stepped inside historic Christ Church in Alexandria and discovered, “This is where George Washington actually attended church.” As I realized that the Father of our Country once sat in a large box-shaped pew and attended his final church service there on November 17, 1799, I got chills. It was a moment to remember and treasure.
That powerful moment helped spark the idea that one day I would share this story and many others through guided tours in Old Town Alexandria. Many of you have since joined me or members of my team on those tours to experience these places and hear these stories.
While researching George Washington's life in Alexandria and building Alexandria History Tours, I became convinced that these stories deserved a permanent home on the page. They needed to appear in print as a comprehensive narrative. Last year, I set out to write a book that delves deep into George Washington's vast connections to Alexandria.
I finished the book last fall, and it has been in development with the publisher. As of today, the wait is over.
My book, George Washington and Alexandria: A Founding Friendship, is officially released!
If you pre-ordered on Amazon, your copies should be shipping as you read this e-mail. Thank you for your support. It means a lot!
If you are eager to pick up a copy, here are the options:
- Order online via Amazon, Barnes & Noble, or Bookshop.org
- Purchase directly from me if you are in Alexandria (signed copies available)
What to expect from reading this book?
George Washington and Alexandria: A Founding Friendship explores how Washington’s life was impacted by Alexandria and its people.
Alexandria was founded in 1749 when George Washington was 17. The city and its residents became part of Washington's personal and professional world for the rest of his life. Alexandrians served with him in war, conducted business with him, worshipped alongside him, and even cared for him in his final days.
Washington’s story is not just about one larger than life American hero. It is about friendship, mentors, partnerships, and a community that shaped and supported a leader. No great leader stands alone, and Washington was no exception. His success would not have been possible without his friends. Moreover, Alexandria was enhanced by George Washington's many contributions to the city's social, educational, economic, and religious institutions.
My goal was to publish this book by George Washington’s birthday. I realize that yesterday was the observed birthday. However, with Washington's official birthday on February 22, I’m calling this goal mission accomplished.
My hope is that this book inspires you to explore Alexandria through the lens of Washington’s network of friends and neighbors. I am confident that people will enjoy and learn a lot!
