18th Century America

George Gilpin: Revolutionary Hero and Alexandria’s Unsung Architect

Updated October 2026: This post now includes Gilpin’s 1791 survey of the first lines of the federal district, his King Street lot on today’s Market Square block, and the role of enslaved labor in the Potomac Company, drawing on Greg A. Beaman’s 2026 Market Square study for Alexandria Archaeology and Gilpin’s correspondence with George Washington. … Read more

Unveiling the Stories of Cavan Boa: George Washington’s Tailor and Revolutionary War Veteran

Introduction Unveiling the stories behind the notable figures of history can provide a fascinating insight into the past. One such significant individual is Cavan Boa, who played a crucial role in the American Revolutionary War and held the prestigious title of George Washington’s tailor. Cavan Boa: An Overview Cavan Boa (c. 1765 – August 20, … Read more