Objects are "Windows to the Past"
By looking into them, we can see people, places and events of long ago.

Windows to the Past is a Computer Learning Activity created by museum educators at six Alexandria, Virginia museums for use in the classroom or on the Internet, by teachers, parents and students. This special section of the Historic Alexandria home page includes an interactive history lesson from each museum. A mascot, the History Mouse, leads children through the program to give them a better awareness of their hometown history.

Windows to the Past will guide students in examining historic objects including a harmonica, a Civil War flag, a close stool, a needlework sampler, a punch bowl and an organ, while drawing on research and technology skills.

This Computer Learning Activity was produced in 1997 as a part of "It's Our Town," a project funded through the Institute of Museum and Library Services. The project involved a partnership between the six Alexandria museums and the Alexandria City Public Schools. The project was designed to give students a better understanding of events, historic figures, social change, scientific advances and technology which helped to shape Alexandria, Virginia.

1. A Guide for Teachers
2. A Guide for Students
3. Learning Activities
   Choose a museum to explore!
   
   • Archaeology Museum
   • Black History Museum
   • Carlyle House
   • Gadsby's Tavern Museum
   • Fort Ward Museum
   • The Lyceum
4. Participating Museums
   Visit our museum websites.
   • Alexandria Archaeology Museum
   • Alexandria Black History Museum
   • Fort Ward Museum & Historic Site
   • Gadsby's Tavern Museum
   • The Lyceum
   • Carlyle House
5. About the Grant
6. Visiting the Museums
7. Projects to Do at Home