The Methodist Protestant Cemetery was formally established in 1833, even though the current signage states 1809, which is incorrect. The cemetery is abandoned but maintained by the City of Alexandria. There are around 1500 burials in the cemetery.
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
Born on April 6, 1820, Major George Duffey was a third-generation silversmith in Alexandria and lived until July 10, 1895. He lies at rest in The Methodist Protestant Cemetery. His grandfather, John Duffey, was responsible for crafting the silver trowel used by President George Washington on September 18, 1793, to lay the cornerstone of the … Read more
In Alexandria’s Methodist Protestant Cemetery rests Joseph Bruin (1808 – 1882), a prominent figure known for his involvement in the slave trade. He ran one of the largest slave pens in Alexandria during his time. In 1844, Bruin acquired a brick Federal-style building located at 1707 Duke Street, along with adjacent acreage, to use as … Read more
Step into history with our expert-led walking tours of Alexandria’s most storied cemeteries.
Our June 2024 tour was featured on the front page of the Alexandria Times in honor of the Alexandria Archaeology Commission’s 50th anniversary.
Wilmer McLean’s now-famous quote captures his remarkable role in the American Civil War. The first major battle erupted on his farm near Bull Run, and four years later, his parlor in Appomattox hosted the surrender of General Robert E. Lee to Ulysses S. Grant—marking the war’s end on April 9, 1865. McLean’s final chapter unfolded in Alexandria, where he is buried in St. Paul’s Cemetery within the Wilkes Street Cemetery Complex.
Alva Lee Harvey: The Aviator Who Helped Launch the First Flight Around the World
On April 6, 1924, Staff Sergeant Alva Harvey departed Seattle to circumnavigate the globe by air. Though his plane crashed in Alaska, Harvey’s legacy in aviation soared through WWII and beyond.
Buried in The Presbyterian Cemetery, Alexandria, VA.
Read Alva’s Full Story →
Browse the Featured Gravestone Archive →
Explore Alexandria’s Notable Burials
Curious who’s buried in Alexandria? Here are just a few:
Read the Full Story → Explore the Discoveries →
Alexandria was the first Southern city seized by Union forces—just one day after Virginians voted to secede. Its cemeteries, hospitals, and historic homes became central to the Civil War’s human story.
Explore the lives of soldiers, civilians, contrabands, and spies who shaped Alexandria’s wartime legacy.
Want to explore on your own schedule?
Download our printable brochure and enjoy a self-guided walk through Alexandria’s most historic cemeteries—featuring 35,000+ stories in one extraordinary complex.
Tuesday, April 15 – 1:00 to 3:00 PM
Hollin Hall Senior Center, Room 218
Join David Heiby for a talk with the Mount Vernon Genealogical Society:
The Wilkes Street Cemetery Complex – an introduction to America’s most historic cluster of burial grounds and the 35,000+ stories they hold.
All are welcome!
On April 5, Gravestone Stories joined the Lee-Fendall House to mark the 160th anniversary of the Grosvenor Branch Hospital closure. David Heiby, Gravestone’s founder and VP of the Virginia Trust for Historic Preservation, read aloud the names of 10 Union soldiers who died while under care at the Civil War-era hospital.
View the full story to learn more about this solemn commemoration, groundbreaking medical history, and the soldiers laid to rest in Alexandria.
Discover photos from our tours, talks, and commemorations honoring Alexandria’s history and those who shaped it. View More Highlights
Alexandria’s rich history is preserved and interpreted by dedicated organizations that engage the community through research, education, and historic site preservation.
The Alexandria Historical Society works to document and promote the city’s past.
The Lee-Fendall House Museum, owned and operated by the Virginia Trust for Historic Preservation, offers insight into Alexandria’s evolving history through one of its most significant historic homes.
