Hugh Mercer Apothecary Shop

06/02/2026

05/31/2026

Special thanks to Dr. Hugh Mercer's assistants, Susan Barnes and Margaret Matarese at their recent presentation, "Revolutionary War Medicine.” Both Susan and Margaret brought 18th-century medical practices to life and showcased authentic tools, remedies and techniques - both in the treatment of common ailments and also battlefield injuries. A big shoutout to our brave "patients" who volunteered to be poked and prodded in the name of historical enlightenment!

To learn more about Hugh Mercer, his medical practice in Fredericksburg and 18th-century medicine, be sure to visit the Hugh Mercer Apothecary Shop. We are now open seven days a week, Monday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sundays Noon to 4 p.m.

https://www.washingtonheritagemuseums.org/museum-details

05/26/2026

05/23/2026

🌿 Yesterday, friends, family, and generations of past and present site interpreters—truly an extended family—gathered at the Hugh Mercer Apothecary Shop to dedicate two garden benches and celebrate the extraordinary career of Genevieve Bugay upon her retirement after more than 40 years.

One bench was dedicated in Genevieve's honor by her grandson and Washington Heritage Museums gardener, Ian Bugay, along with Susan Barnes and Margaret Matarese. The other bench was dedicated by the Town and Country Garden Club.

Genevieve has been the heart and soul of the Apothecary Shop, transforming it from a simple display into a vibrant, first-person living history experience that has inspired thousands. From cultivating the medicinal garden to caring for the shop’s famous leeches, her passion, curiosity, and dedication have left an indelible mark on every corner of this special place.

We would like to thank everyone who attended yesterday's event to honor such a remarkable woman!

05/22/2026

Any gardener will tell you that we desperately need the rain! So, in that spirit, we will be hosting the garden bench dedication tomorrow for Genevieve Bugay RAIN OR SHINE! Light refreshments of cookies and lemonade will be served inside but be sure to bring an umbrella for the dedication outside. We will have a guest book to sign; cards are welcome (please, no gifts). This is a surprise—please help us keep it under wraps!

☔ Garden Bench Dedication for Genevieve Bugay
☔ Hugh Mercer Apothecary Shop
☔ 4:30 p.m.
☔ Rain or Shine!

05/18/2026

🌟 We're excited to share that Washington Heritage Museums is participating in the Blue Star Museums Program this summer! 🌟

As we celebrate our nation's 250th anniversary of independence, we hope you bring your loved ones and explore the rich history of Fredericksburg. As part of the program, active-duty personnel and their families will receive FREE admission to all three of our museums: Hugh Mercer Apothecary Shop, the Mary Washington House and the Rising Sun Tavern. This also applies to National Guard and Reserve families from Armed Forces Day (May 17) through Labor Day. Simply present your military ID at each museum site.

🇺🇸 Thank you for your service and we can't wait to welcome you!

Learn more at the link below:
https://www.arts.gov/initiatives/blue-star-museums/frequently-asked-questions

05/10/2026

The Hugh Mercer Apothecary Shop is closed today, May 10. We apologize for any inconvenience. Please visit our other sites, Mary Washington House, Rising Sun Tavern and the Mary Washington Monument.

05/08/2026

Please join us at the Hugh Mercer Apothecary Shop to celebrate and honor Genevieve Bugay with a garden bench dedication on Friday, May 22, from 4:30–6:00 p.m. This is a surprise—please help us keep it under wraps!

Genevieve’s influence is woven into every corner of the Apothecary Shop. Through her leadership and vision over the past 40 years, a modest museum became a vibrant place for living history, education, and community. This dedication recognizes the care, creativity, and welcome she has shared with countless visitors—and the legacy that will continue to educate, inspire, and connect generations to come.

🌼Date/Time: Friday, May 22, 4:30–6:00 p.m.
🌼Location: Hugh Mercer Apothecary Shop, 1020 Caroline Street, Fredericksburg
🌼Surprise: Please do not mention the dedication to Genevieve.
🌼Refreshments: Cookies and lemonade!
🌼Notes: We will have a guest book to sign; cards are welcome (please, no gifts).