The Wilkes Street Cemetery Complex is located at the Southwest Corner of S. Payne and Wilkes Street. There are 13 cemeteries within the 82-acre complex.
August 2025 – Lost Alexandria firefighter from deadly 1855 fire finally found using ground-penetrating radar in historic Christ Church Episcopal Cemetery A Corner of Forgotten Heroes J. Carson Greene, who died heroically battling the deadly 1855 Dowell China Shop fire, has finally been located after 170 years through cutting-edge ground-penetrating radar technology. This extraordinary discovery … Read more
Born around 1840 in Alexandria, George W. Petty left an enduring mark on the city as a business owner, public servant, and firefighting hero. Though little is known about his early life, by 1876, Petty appears in the Alexandria City Directory as the proprietor of a saloon at the fish wharf, residing on Union Street near King. Over the next … Read more
George Whalen, the youngest firefighter in Alexandria’s history to die as a result of a fire, is remembered for his youthful courage, deep community ties, and ultimate sacrifice. His death left a lasting impact on the city and continues to resonate with generations of firefighters and residents. Every October, the Alexandria Fire Department holds a … Read more
The Alexandria Fire of 1855: A Night That Changed Alexandria Forever The Alexandria Fire of 1855 was one of the most devastating events in the city’s history. Fires were an ever-present threat in 19th-century Alexandria. With row houses built primarily from wood and warehouses stocked with highly flammable materials, the city was vulnerable to devastating … Read more
Samuel Cooper Confederate General: A Complex Legacy Few figures in American military history embody the complexities of loyalty and leadership like Samuel Cooper, a Confederate General whose legacy reflects the turbulent times of the Civil War. Born on June 12, 1798, in Dutchess County, New York, he began his military career as a U.S. Army … Read more
In an exciting archaeological development, ground-penetrating radar (GPR) scans conducted on September 14, 2023, may have finally located the long-lost grave of George Gilpin, a Revolutionary War hero and one of Alexandria’s most influential early citizens. This discovery of George Gilpin’s presumptive grave not only solves a historical mystery but also provides us with an … Read more
Introduction On August 1, 1803, Alexandria, Virginia—a thriving port city of 6,000 souls—faced one of the most devastating crises in its history. A yellow fever epidemic descended upon the town, leaving in its wake a trail of death, fear, and, ultimately, transformation. This tragic event would lead to the creation of the Wilkes Street Cemetery … Read more
Introduction Discover the untold story of courage, sacrifice, and the fight for equality at Alexandria National Cemetery. This hallowed ground isn’t just a final resting place for Civil War soldiers; it’s a powerful testament to the bravery of the United States Colored Troops (USCT) both on and off the battlefield. From their valiant efforts at … Read more
In the annals of American Civil War history, countless stories of bravery, sacrifice, and unwavering dedication to one’s cause remain untold. Among these is the remarkable tale of Caroline Matilde Johnson, born Caroline Matilde Weedon. A fervent supporter of the Confederate cause who risked her life to aid Southern soldiers, she now rests alongside many … Read more
Introduction During the winter, outdoor walking tours face challenges due to weather conditions. Despite canceling several tours, historical research at the Wilkes Street Cemetery Complex has continued. A team of volunteers has pursued the exploration of the site’s history, ensuring research progress continues. Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) and Mark Ludlow’s Surveying Efforts A critical effort … Read more
A Scottish Upbringing Sets the Stage Born in 1731 in Kilbride, Scotland, Robert Adam was the eldest son of Rev. John Adam and Janet Campbell Adam. His father, a Doctor of Divinity, likely instilled in Robert a spirit of scholarship and civic duty that would guide his future actions. This solid Scottish upbringing planted the … Read more
The Paulding Family’s Military Roots Dr. Holmes Offley Paulding rests in St. Paul’s Cemetery, his gravestone a silent sentinel marking the final chapter of a family inextricably interwoven with pivotal moments in America’s national story. His father, Commander Leonard Paulding of the U.S. Navy, who perished in Panama, and his mother, Helen Jane Offley, are … Read more
Introduction Park Agnew, a name synonymous with Alexandria’s industrial growth and political dynamism, left an indelible mark on the city’s history. Born in 1847 as John Park Agnew, he became better known by his abbreviated moniker, Park Agnew. His life story is one of entrepreneurial success, civic leadership, and familial devotion. This article delves into … Read more
Introduction Colonel John Fitzgerald left an indelible mark on Alexandria, Virginia, through his military service, civic leadership, and close friendship with George Washington. Beyond his contributions, the legacy continued with his grandsons, who furthered the family’s prominence in American history. Though the location of Fitzgerald’s final resting place remains uncertain, his and his descendants’ contributions … Read more
John Wise Sr., often called the “Tavern King of Alexandria,” was pivotal in shaping Alexandria’s social and cultural landscape during the late 18th century. His establishment, Wise’s Tavern, also known as the Globe Tavern, Bunch of Grapes, and Abert’s Tavern, located at 201 North Fairfax Street, was central to a significant moment in American history. … Read more