The Ramsay Family has been a part of Alexandria since the City was established in 1749. The early Ramsay family members bought property, established homes and businesses, and participated in the City government. The Ramsay House, located on King Street, was moved to this location around 1749. The house, after several renovations, now houses the Alexandria Tourist Center. Rebecca Ramsay Reese (she married Robert Miller Reese in 1900) was the daughter of George William and Harriet Fawctt Ramsay. SHe is a descendent of William Ramsay, on the the founders of Alexandria and of Dennis Ramsay who was a mayor of Alexandria and a peer of George Washington. Mrs. Reese was born April 22, 1870 in the family homse at 517 Cameron. Her interest in preservation started in early life and the knowledge in this area led her to becme a prominent figure in Alexandria. She was instrumental in the restoration of the Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Shop, Gadsby's Tavern, Christ Church, and helped raise funds for the restoration of Woodlawn Plantation. Mrs. Reese died July 19, 1955 at her residence in Alexandria and is buried in Presbyterian Cemetery.
This Collection contains a number of items all from the original Ramsay Family papers which were donated to the Smithsonian Institute: an account book from Andrew and William Ramsay dated 1798-1801, photocopies of Ramsay letters, history of Ramsay house, genealogical notes on the Ramsay family, Rebecca Ramsay Reese papers and diaries.
Ramsay Papers 1753-1757, Microfilm #00067; Vertical File: Biographies - Ramsay Family
[Item identification], Ramsay Family Papers, MS012, Alexandria Library, Local History and Special Collections, Alexandria, Virginia.