Wilmer McLean (May 3, 1814 – June 5, 1882) Introduction The life and homes of Wilmer McLean are deeply intertwined with the American Civil War’s pivotal moments. From the first […]
Author: David
Hello! I'm David Heiby, a passionate public historian dedicated to preserving and sharing the rich history of Alexandria, Virginia, and the surrounding region. After a fulfilling career as a businessman and entrepreneur, I now serve as the Superintendent of the historic Presbyterian Cemetery and Columbarium, part of the Wilkes Street Cemetery Complex in Alexandria.
I lead tours of the Wilkes Street Cemetery Complex, considered the most historic cluster of cemeteries in the United States, and nearby Civil War battlefields, including Harpers Ferry, South Mountain, and Antietam. I also trace the footsteps of those involved in the Assassination of President Abraham Lincoln in April 1865. As a licensed tour guide in Washington, D.C., I offer unique insights into the nation's capital.
I manage a comprehensive website dedicated to Alexandria's cemeteries and am an active Board Member of the Alexandria Historical Society and the Lee-Fendall House Museum.
Join me in exploring Alexandria's captivating past through cemetery or battlefield tours, visiting my website, or connecting with me on social media. I'm pleased to bring the city's history to life and serve my community meaningfully.
The Everleigh Sisters Minna Simms, born on July 13, 1866, and passed away on September 16, 1948, along with Aida Lester Simms, born on February 15, 1865, and passed away […]
Alexandria’s Mysterious Female Stranger In September of 1816, a couple arrived in Alexandria after a voyage from the West Indies, boarding at Gadsby’s Tavern. The woman, adorned in a black […]
The Overlooked Battle of the Potomac and its Historical Significance In the early stages of the War of 1812, American forces took decisive action in April 1813. They successfully captured […]
Categories
The Ugliest Man in Britain
Meet John Wilkes The ugliest man in Britain. He had a very unpleasant appearance, with his eyes not appropriately aligned and a jaw that stuck out. Still, he also had […]
In the early 1920s, many countries wanted to be the first to fly Around-the-World- air flight successfully. The British tried in 1922 but failed, and then a French team tried […]
Historic Context The historic St. Mary’s Catholic Church Cemetery is situated at 1000 S. Royal Street, Alexandria, VA 22314, and boasts a rich history dating all the way back to […]
The Alexandria National Cemetery, originally called the Soldiers Cemetery, has over 4300 burials, including the graves of 249 United States Color Troops (U.S.C.T) who served in the Civil War. The […]
