Begin your exploration below—a curated gateway to Alexandria history resources, featuring original research, maps, and interpretive materials developed by public historian David Heiby of Gravestone Stories. This section brings together historical essays, cemetery directories, symbolism guides, and self-guided materials that reveal the lives and legacies preserved in Alexandria’s historic burial grounds.
Whether you’re a genealogist, historian, student, or visitor, these resources connect you to the people and stories that shaped Alexandria’s history—from its colonial beginnings to the Civil War and beyond.
Historic Background
Learn about Alexandria’s early burial customs, the development of its cemeteries, and the evolving cultural and religious traditions that shaped its landscape.
- 18th-Century Burials: The Anglican Church’s Influence
- The Wilkes Street Cemetery Complex: A Historical Gem
- Cemetery Directory
Symbolism & Traditions
Explore the meanings behind Alexandria’s gravestone imagery, epitaphs, and funerary art, and learn how cultural beliefs shaped memorial traditions.
- Gravestone Symbolism & Meanings
- The Complete Guide to Cemetery Superstitions, Folklore, and Traditions
Historical Research
Access groundbreaking Civil War and biographical studies by expert Alexandria historians, drawn from original archival sources and field research.
Brochures & Self-Guided Tours
Download printable walking tour materials and brochures to help you explore Alexandria’s cemeteries and historical sites at your own pace.
- The Presbyterian Cemetery & Columbarium Brochure
- The Presbyterian Meeting House 18th-Century Burial Ground
- War of 1812 Burials in the Presbyterian Cemetery
- Walking Tour of the Alexandria National Cemetery
- Wilkes Street Cemetery Complex Brochure
Downloadable Maps
Access digital and printable maps of Alexandria’s historic cemeteries, including layout diagrams and section identifiers for research and visitation.
- Plot Map of the Presbyterian Cemetery
- Section Map of the Presbyterian Cemetery
- St. Paul’s Cemetery Map
Explore Key Cemeteries
Learn more about Alexandria’s most historically significant cemeteries within and beyond the Wilkes Street Cemetery Complex.
- Christ Church Episcopal Cemetery in Alexandria, Virginia
- The Historic Presbyterian Cemetery: A Complete Guide
- St. Paul’s Cemetery in Alexandria, Virginia
Preserving Alexandria’s Buried History
Gravestone Stories is dedicated to documenting, interpreting, and sharing the stories of those laid to rest in Alexandria’s historic cemeteries. These resources are continually updated as new research, mapping, and archival discoveries emerge.
To experience these stories in person, join one of our award-winning walking tours on Viator:
