Alexandria Gazette

CELEBRATION OF RETROCESSION

On Saturday last, the occasion of the Retrocession of the Town and County of Alexandria to Virginia, was celebrated in this place, in an appropriate and handsome manner. National salutes were fired at sunrise, at noon, and at sunset. The flags of the shipping in port were displayed and flags suspended in different parts of the town. At ten o'clock the procession formed under the command of Dr. Wm. L. Powell, Chief Marshal, assisted by his aids, and marched through the principal streets. The military made a beautiful display. The Ringgold Cavalry and the Mount Vernon Guards attracted much attention. Two fine bands of music accompanied the procession—the Alexandria Brass Band and the Independent Brass Band. The Mayor and Common Council and a long line of citizens also united on the occasion. About noon the procession arrived at the Public Square, and a large concourse assembled. A fervent prayer was offered by Rev. Elias Harrison, and eloquent addresses were delivered by G. W. P. Custis, of the County, and F. L. Smith, of this town. The audience was then dismissed, and the ceremonies of the occasion closed. Business was suspended throughout the day, and the weather being pleasant, the streets were crowded with our population and a number of strangers and citizens from the adjoining counties. Every thing passed off in the happiest manner, and no accident or disorder occurred to mar the general joy and harmony.