It’s an out-of-sight marker in Alexandria, Virginia, that seems like an ordinary historic monument on the surface — but could have connections to the Freemasons, the world’s largest secret society.
In today’s episode of “Matt About Town,” WTOP’s Matt Kaufax heads to King Street, just outside of historic Old Town Alexandria, to explore the mysterious story behind the city’s little-known War Memorial.
Originally dedicated in 1940 to those from the City of Alexandria who lost their lives in World War I, the War Memorial, also known as the “Veterans of Foreign Wars Memorial,” stands today as a tribute to all Alexandrians who have lost their lives across all American conflicts.
In fact, its most recent addition, a plaque commemorating those from Alexandria who lost their lives in Vietnam, was just added in June of this year.
It’s a spot you might drive by and never notice, because it’s partially obscured from the road behind trees and brush. It also sits in the shadow of Alexandria’s Union Station, a lesser-known Amtrak stop before D.C.’s Union Station.
But the real twist in this monument’s story lies in its construction — which happened during a moment in time when another giant building was being erected just across the street: Alexandria’s Masonic Temple.
Come along with Matt and Alexandria historian Dan Lee on an adventure that invokes urban legend and mystery.
“Matt About Town” airs every Tuesday and Thursday on WTOP at 7:45 a.m., and runs throughout the rest of the day on 103.5 FM. His video pieces are always posted on wtop.com.
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