The Office of Historic Alexandria (OHA) is responsible for the stewardship and promotion of the historic City through the preservation of the City's historic and archaeological sites, artifacts and records, and for the use of these resources in accordance with professional standards of scholarship and museum procedures.

OHA staff is charged with providing programs to enhance the quality of Alexandria 's urban environment for its residents by building a sense of community identity and continuity, preserving the historic cultural diversity of the City, and contributing to the City's national and international reputation. These programs bring people and business to Alexandria by making the City an attractive location for leisure activities, conventions, offices and businesses.

The Administration Section sets priorities for the department to encourage a professional, well-developed publications program, concern for preservation and care of all historic sites, and the development of a quality exhibition program. Other responsibilities of this section include: budget oversight; financial analysis; assistance in personnel issues; and the administration of the Open Space Easement Program in cooperation with the Alexandria Historical Restoration and Preservation Commission. The Administration Section also provides staff support for the Historic Alexandria Resources Commission, the Public Records Advisory Commission, and the Alexandria Historical Restoration and Preservation Commission.

The Mission Statements of the Historic Alexandria museums can be found below:

• Alexandria Archaeology Museum
• Archives and Records Center
• Black History Museum
• Fort Ward Museum and Historic Site
• Gadsby's Tavern Museum
• The Lyceum: Alexandria's History Museum
• Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum