As you stand before this majestic structure, you might wonder what it is and why it stands so tall. Welcome to the world-renowned George Washington Monument in historic Alexandria, Virginia. This towering masonry column, standing at 93 feet, was built by Scottish immigrants back in 1825 - thats even before our grandparents were born!

This isnt just any monument; its the tallest freestanding masonry column on Earth. Can you imagine how much skill and determination it took to construct such an architectural marvel over two centuries ago? The first lot of this remarkable site was auctioned off on April 7, 1827, for a whopping $20,000 (equivalent to approximately $480,000 today). Quite the price tag back then!

But why did people invest so much in this towering tribute? It all started with George Washington. Yes, that George Washington – our nations very first president and a true American hero. This monument was built to honor him and his incredible legacy, making it not only an architectural marvel but also a significant historical site within Alexandria.

As you wander around this towering landmark, let your imagination take you back in time. Picture the bustling streets of 19th-century Alexandria, with horse-drawn carriages and people dressed in period attire. Imagine being one of those early settlers who gathered together to witness the auctioning off of the first lot for this monument – a momentous occasion that would shape the landscape of Alexandria for generations to come.

Now close your eyes and listen as I paint you a vivid picture of the George Washington Monument. Picture its 93-foot height reaching up towards the sky, standing tall and proud against the backdrop of this historic city. Envision the intricate details carved into its stone surface, each telling a story about our nations past and reminding us of the importance of preserving history for future generations.

So there you have it – an engaging audio segment that highlights the historical background and unique attributes of the Monument: First lot sold at auction located in Alexandria, VA, USA. As we stand here today, let us remember the significance of this site and pay homage to George Washington, whose spirit lives on within these walls.