At Gravestone Stories, we proudly introduce our expert Alexandria tour guides: David Heiby, our founder and Civil War expert; Catherine Weinraub, a specialist in Alexandria’s firefighting history; and Madeline Feierstein, Civil War hospital historian. With over 50 years of combined experience, these passionate guides bring the city’s past to life through captivating tours and talks. They have devoted significant time and effort to researching and sharing Alexandria’s rich history. Through engaging storytelling, they lead visitors on unforgettable journeys to discover historic sites, cemeteries, churches, and more. Our guides regularly present to groups such as the Sons and Daughters of the Revolutionary War, Colonial Dames, Alexandria Historical Society, Lee-Fendall House, Friendship Fire House, and The National Museum of Civil War Medicine. Their deep knowledge of history ensures an engaging and educational experience for all audiences, from history enthusiasts to curious visitors.
David Heiby: A Living Bridge Between Alexandria’s Past and Present
David Heiby’s role as a bridge between Alexandria’s past and present began on his 11th birthday with a trip to Appomattox Court House. In a poetic turn of history, he now leads tours in the Wilkes Street Cemetery Complex, where Wilmer McLean, the owner of the surrender house, rests – creating a personal connection between that pivotal moment in American history and today’s Alexandria.
Growing up in the Old Presbyterian Meeting House, established in 1772, David’s connection to history was beneath his feet. His family pew offered a view of Dr. James Craik’s grave, George Washington’s personal physician and chief mourner, while sitting just 13 feet above Dr. James Muir’s final resting place – the pastor who helped lay the cornerstone of both the District of Columbia and the United States Capitol, and who later led the Masonic rites at Washington’s funeral. These early experiences formed the foundation of David’s unique ability to connect modern visitors with Alexandria’s rich historical tapestry.
David’s path to becoming a premier tour guide was as varied as the history he now interprets. His career saw him serve in law enforcement, excel as a corporate sales trainer, and rise to become the CEO and President of a successful international hand tool company. In 2021, David sold his interests in the company, paving the way to fully pursue his passion for history.
As Superintendent of the Presbyterian Cemetery for over a decade, David doesn’t just walk among history – he helps uncover and preserve it. Through collaborative work with archaeologists and historians, using technologies like ground-penetrating radar alongside meticulous historical research, he has participated in efforts to locate and document historically significant burial sites throughout Alexandria’s cemeteries. These discoveries help bridge historical gaps and bring forgotten stories back into the light.
Today, David is a living link between multiple generations of Alexandria’s story. Through his roles as Treasurer of the Alexandria Historical Society and Vice President of the Virginia Trust for Historic Preservation, he helps preserve the past while making it accessible to present generations. His expertise, developed through years of personal study and learning from field experts at Penn State Mont Alto Civil War conferences and the University of Virginia, allows him to weave together the many threads of Alexandria’s history into compelling narratives that resonate with modern audiences.
Whether leading tours through the Wilkes Street Cemetery Complex and Civil War battlefields or sharing the drama of the Lincoln assassination, David’s unique blend of historical insight, personal connection to the city, and engaging storytelling style helps visitors forge their own bridges to the past. Join him for a walk through time and discover how Alexandria’s rich history continues to shape and inform our present.
Catherine Weinraub: Alexandrian Heritage and Firefighting History Tours
Catherine Weinraub, another one of our knowledgeable Alexandria tour guides, brings the city’s past to life through her storytelling. She has experience at the Office of Historic Alexandria, Mount Vernon, and Arlington House. Additionally, Catherine shares her expertise as the Historian for the Ivy Hill Cemetery Historical Preservation Society and Friendship Veterans Fire Engine Association.
Her tours showcase her knowledge of Alexandria’s history. She highlights the impact of 19th-century fires that shaped the city’s firefighting legacy. As the Friendship Fire Company’s historian, Catherine offers an insider’s perspective. Moreover, she shares stories of the volunteers who risked everything to protect their community.
In 2023, Catherine authored “Friendship Fire Company 250th Anniversary 1774 – 2024 Alexandria, Virginia,” a book celebrating the rich history and legacy of the Friendship Fire Company. This publication further demonstrates her expertise and dedication to preserving Alexandria’s firefighting heritage.
Join one of Catherine’s engaging tours to discover untold stories. Furthermore, explore Alexandria’s historic Ivy Hill Cemetery and learn about the brave firefighters who shaped the city’s history.
Madeline Feierstein: Civil War Historian and Developer of Alexandria’s Civil War Hospital Tours
Madeline Feierstein is a dedicated local historian with a deep expertise in the Civil War history of Alexandria, Virginia, particularly focusing on its military hospitals and prisons. As a docent at the Lee-Fendall House Museum, Madeline co-founded the Civil War Research Team and developed the popular Civil War Hospital Tour. Her meticulous research has been showcased at prestigious institutions, including the Lee-Fendall House and the National Museum of Civil War Medicine. She leads significant projects documenting the soldiers treated and those who fell in Alexandria’s wartime hospitals.
Originally from Washington D.C., Madeline earned her Bachelor of Science in Criminology from George Mason University. She is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in American History at Southern New Hampshire University and plans to continue her academic journey with a doctoral degree in history in the near future.
Join Madeline on a journey through Alexandria’s Civil War history. Explore the city’s wartime hospitals and prisons, and uncover the stories of the soldiers who passed through these sites. Madeline’s deep knowledge and passion for history ensure an enriching and informative experience.
Book Your Tour Today
Our expert guides, David Heiby, Catherine Weinraub, and Madeline Feierstein, are passionate about sharing Alexandria’s fascinating past with visitors. Each guide brings a unique perspective and deep knowledge of the city’s history, ensuring an engaging and informative experience. Whether you’re interested in exploring historic cemeteries, uncovering Civil War stories, or learning about Alexandria’s firefighting legacy, our tours offer something for everyone.
Take advantage of the opportunity to dive into Alexandria’s captivating history. Choose your preferred guide and tour, and embark on an unforgettable journey through time.
