1965 Map of Alexandria

About this map

The Potomac River corridor reveals a mid-century landscape of rapid urbanization and massive federal infrastructure. Dominating the shoreline is Washington National Airport and the iconic Pentagon, while the northern banks of the Anacostia River show the concentrated development of Fort Mc Nair and St Elizabeths Hospital. This 1960s perspective captures Alexandria and Arlington at a moment of transition, showing the industrial density of the Potomac Yards rail facility alongside established residential neighborhoods like Arlington Village and Del Ray. Higher ground to the west is anchored by the historic Virginia Theological Seminary and several sprawling cemeteries including Alexandria National Cemetery and Mount Comfort Cemetery. The map documents the expanding highway network, with the Capital Beltway and Woodrow Wilson Memorial Bridge providing new connections across the water.