Nelly Custis Chapter
Daughters of the American Revolution
Mount Vernon, Virginia
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 The Alexander Family
namesake of Alexandria, VA
  Abingdon Plantation was originally part of a 6,000 acre tract of land granted to Robert Howson in 1669.  As master of a sailing ship, he was given the land in exchange for transporting settlers to the colony of Virginia.  Howson sold it to John Alexander for 6,000 pounds of tobacco.

     John Alexander was a sea captain and surveyor who emigrated from Scotland to Virginia.  After his death in 1677, Alexander's land was divided between his sons.

     By 1746, Gerard Alexander, 1st, John Alexander's grandson, built a house on his portion of the land.  Its one-and-a-half story oak framework, side brick chimneys and steep roof were typical of early colonial houses.  The brick foundations which remain nestled today within the confines of Reagan National Airport, were part of his home.

    Gerard Alexander, 1st, was probably the first member of the Alexander family to live on this land.  After his death in 1761, his three sons inherited the estate.
 

Capt John Alexander
(?-1677)
  • Bought 6,000 acres of land from Robert Howson
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Robert Alexander
(c. 1634-1704)
  • Inherited land that became Abingdon
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Phillip Alexander
(?-1705)
  • Gave his portion of land to brother
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         Major Robert Alexander
               (1688-1735)
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John Alexander
(c. 1711-1734)
  • Inherited land south of Four Mile Creek
Gerard Alexander
(c. 1712-1761)
  • Inherited land north of Four Mile Creek
  • Built the original house c. 1746
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Robert Alexander
(c. 1740-1793)
  • Inherited 906 acres
  • John Parke Custis contracted to buy his land
Phillip Alexander
(c. 1742-1785)
  • Inherited 900 acres
  • John Parke Custis wanted to buy his land to unite the two land parcels, but never did
Gerard Alexander
(?-1800)
  • Inherited 900 acres
  • John Parke Custis bought his land outright

 




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