The Legacy of a Distinguished Lee: Edmund Jennings Lee I’s Impact on Law and Society. Early Life and Family Heritage Edmund Jennings Lee I, a beacon of legal prowess and […]
Author: David
As a public historian, I am dedicated to preserving and sharing the rich history of Alexandria, Virginia, and the surrounding region. With a deep passion for bringing the past to life, I serve my community in this meaningful role.
Before this, I enjoyed a fulfilling career as a businessman and entrepreneur. Now retired, I have found a new sense of purpose in my work as a public historian.
Since 2015, I have had the privilege of serving as the Superintendent of the historic Presbyterian Cemetery and Columbarium, located within the Wilkes Street Cemetery Complex in Alexandria. This cemetery holds a special place in my family's history, as it was started in the early 1800s by the Old Presbyterian Meeting House, a historic congregation dating back to 1772 that is situated one mile east in the heart of Old Town. The cemetery is the final resting place of my parents, and the Meeting House is where I have worshipped for over 60 years.
As a public historian, I am thrilled to lead tours of the Wilkes Street Cemetery, which has thirteen cemeteries in a complex with over 35,000 interments. It is considered the most historic cluster of cemeteries in the United States. These sacred grounds offer a fascinating glimpse into the story of Alexandria and its people. I also enjoy guiding tours of nearby Civil War battlefields, combining my passion for history with the compelling narratives of those who fought and fell on these hallowed grounds, bringing their stories to life. I primarily lead tours of Harpers Ferry, South Mountain, and the Antietam Battlefields, along with tracing the footsteps of those involved in the Assassination of President Abraham Lincoln in April 1865. I am also a licensed tour guide in Washington, D.C.
To further engage the community, I manage a blog focused on Alexandria's cemeteries, where the many souls buried across the city are memorialized. I am also an active Board Member of the Alexandria Historical Society and the Lee-Fendall House Museum.
Whether you are a resident or a visitor to the area, I invite you to explore Alexandria's rich history by joining one of my cemetery or battlefield tours, reading my blog, or connecting with me on social media. It is my sincere pleasure to bring the city's captivating past to life and serve my community meaningfully.
William Bartleman’s life journey from his birthplace in Stornoway, Isle of Lewis, Scotland, to his multifaceted legacy in the United States is a story of resilience, community involvement, and unwavering […]
Introduction: A Life of Prominence and Varied Roles Robert Young, a notable figure born on December 27, 1768, left an indelible mark on his community through his multifaceted life. Engaging […]
Introduction: A Life Rooted in History and Community Born as the son of William Ramsay, a founding figure of Alexandria and its first Mayor, Colonel Dennis Ramsay’s upbringing at the […]
Early Life and Formation Born on July 12, 1901, in Yonkers, New York, Jean Pirnie Robertson’s life would be defined by her adventurous spirit and unwavering passion for poetry. Her […]
Introduction The story of Robert W. Bell intertwines the threads of community involvement and entrepreneurial spirit in the 19th century. Born in 1809, Bell’s journey took him from the Isle […]
Preserving Legacy Amidst Abandonment: The Tale of Douglass Memorial Cemetery Established in 1895, Douglass Memorial Cemetery stands as a testament to the history and struggles of African Americans in the […]
Guardian of Farewell: An Enduring Legacy In the heart of history-rich Alexandria, an unassuming figure stands tall among the annals of time. Reverend James Muir, D.D., a man whose life […]
Introduction In the annals of American history, there are families whose stories resonate with dedication, valor, and service. One such family is the Steuart family, a prominent clan of 11 […]
Robert F. Prettyman, a revered carriage maker, rests peacefully within Alexandria’s Presbyterian Cemetery. His legacy endures through the iconic hose-reel carriage crafted for the Friendship Fire Company, where he held […]
Emanuel Ethelbert Downham was a prominent figure in Alexandria, commonly known as E.E. Downham (March 23, 1839 – September 17, 1921). Originally from New Jersey, he arrived in Alexandria in […]
Francis Lee Smith, Jr. (October 1845 – August 25, 1916) finds his final resting place in the Presbyterian Cemetery. During his time as a VMI Cadet, he bravely fought in […]
General John Mason played a crucial role in the creation of the US National Anthem, “The Star-Spangled Banner.” He sent Francis Scott Key on a mission during the War of […]
In the Presbyterian Cemetery, you can find the resting place of Louis Cazenove (November 29, 1807 – March 7, 1852) and his wife, Harriot E. Tuberville Stuart (1823 – December […]
Anthony Charles Cazenove (April 6, 1775 – October 16, 1852) was an illustrious figure with a distinguished life, leaving behind a legacy that earned him immense respect both in his […]
