1956 Map of Alexandria

About this map

Alexandria and southern Arlington Co are shown here during a period of massive post-war expansion. The dense rail operations at Potomac Yards and the early footprint of Washington National Airport dominate the waterfront, while the Richmond Fredericksburg And Potomac RR and Southern RY corridor provide the industrial spine for the region. Significant institutional landmarks appear, such as the Virginia Theological Seminary and St Elizabeths Hospital, alongside sprawling residential developments like Arlandria and Bucknell Manor. In the District, Fort Mc Nair and the Us Naval Gun Factory stand as major military hubs across the Anacostia River from Bolling Air Force Base. The map reveals the intricate network of local schools and churches, including Episcopal High Sch and St Marys Ch, that formed the core of these growing Virginia neighborhoods.