Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum
Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum is a historic apothecary museum in Alexandria, Virginia. The museum is located in the Stabler-Leadbeater Building, built in 1792 and is one of the oldest pharmacies in America. The museum features exhibits on the history of pharmacy and the Stabler-Leadbeater Company. Visitors can also see a replica of the original apothecary shop and learn about pharmacy science.
The history of the Stabler-Leadbeater Company is a story of family, enterprise, and community. It is also a story of pharmacy—the science of preparing and dispensing medications. From its humble beginnings in a small shop on King Street to its present location on Duke Street, the Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary has been an integral part of Alexandria’s history.
It was established in 1792 by John Stabler. The first apothecary in Alexandria operated out of a small shop on King Street. In 1805, Stabler partnered with James Leadbeater, and the business became known as Stabler & Leadbeater. The company flourished, and by the mid-19th century, it was one of the largest pharmacies in the United States.
The structure that houses the Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum was built in 1805-06. It is a brick building with Federal-style architecture. The museum is located on the first floor, and the second floor contains a replica of the original apothecary shop.
What to expect when visiting Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum:
- Displays of historic pharmacy items
- A replica of the original apothecary shop
- Exhibits on the history of pharmacy and the Stabler-Leadbeater Company
- A library with books on the history of pharmacy and medicine
The display cases in the museum feature a variety of items from the Stabler & Leadbeater Company, including medicines, bottles, and equipment. The collection also includes artwork, documents, and photographs that tell the story of the Stabler-Leadbeater Company and the history of pharmacy.
Exhibits on the history of pharmacy and the Stabler-Leadbeater Company are located on the first floor of the museum. Visitors can also see a replica of the original apothecary shop and learn about pharmacy science. The second floor contains a library with books on the history of pharmacy and medicine.
Types of botanicals, tinctures, and medicines:
- Stabler’s Compound Syrup of Sarsaparilla
- Leadbeater’s Tincture of Cinchona
- Stabler’s Patent Liver Pills
- Stabler’s Antiseptic Powder
Outside of Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary is a replica of the sign that hung outside the Stabler-Leadbeater apothecary shop in the 19th century. Local artist Ned Delk created the sign.
One Interesting Fact
The Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum was used as a filming location in the Harry Potter movies. The museum’s exterior was used as the front of the wizarding apothecary, “Potage’s”, in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2. They used the interior for filming. Some of the Harry Potter props and sets are on display in the museum.
If you are a fan of Harry Potter, be sure to check out Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum the next time you are in Alexandria, Virginia!
Rentals and Events
The Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum is available for rental for private events. The museum can accommodate up to 60 people for seated events and up to 100 people for standing events. The museum is also available for educational programs and group tours.
The gift shop at Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum features a variety of items, including books on the history of pharmacy, botanical prints, and herbal teas. A portion of the proceeds from sales goes to support the museum.
The Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum is located at 105-107 S. Fairfax Street in Alexandria, Virginia. The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. Admission is $5 for adults, $3 for seniors and students, and free for children under 12. Group rates are available.
The Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum is located at 105-107 S. Fairfax Street in Alexandria, Virginia. For more information, please call (703) 746-3852 or visit their website at http://www.apothecarymuseum.org/.
