Alexandria VA: The Torpedo Factory

Artifications Podcast

This episode focuses on the History of Alexandria and the art scene that helped define a waterfront. We begin with explorations in the naming of Alexandria, becoming part of DC, and the construction of the Torpedo Factory. We further discuss the Torpedo Factory influence on the development of the waterfront area, creating a thriving art scene, and the history of how the Torpedo Factory and how it became a significant economic engine in the area. Artifications interviews Abbey Alison McCLaine Director of the Torpedo Factory Artists Association and Erica Fortwengler, Director of Communications and marketing for the Art League. (Active Sonar Sound) Ive always loved that sound, yet never really knew what it was. I just remember that awesome movie “The Hunt for Red OCtober”... Still one of my favorites. “Set Range to target… One Ping Only” That is the Sound of active Sonar. Sonar is actually an acronym representing Sound and Range; Basic physics attests that sound travels much farther in water, so much so that Sonar is used by submarines in order to determine its proximity to its surroundings and the shape of submerged objects. Once the sound wave reaches a submerged object, it immediately bounces back to the source with information on things like contours and shapes. The same principles are utilized in Sonograms, and ultrasounds on your body, using sound to create 3D images has been in use for a while. In the Military, A submarine would use sonar to verify a range to a target, and then launch a torpedo with a tremendous amount of accuracy. Why are we talking about this? Because today we explore Alexandria, and specifically Its home for the arts, The much Lauded Torpedo Factory.