George Gilpin: Revolutionary Hero and Alexandria’s Unsung Architect

Updated October 2026: This post now includes Gilpin’s 1791 survey of the first lines of the federal district, his King Street lot on today’s Market Square block, and the role of enslaved labor in the Potomac Company, drawing on Greg A. Beaman’s 2026 Market Square study for Alexandria Archaeology and Gilpin’s correspondence with George Washington. … Read more

Uncovering the Mystery: Does Philip Richard Fendall Rest in Ivy Hill Cemetery? – Part 1

The Lee-Fendall House: Alexandria’s Historical Beacon Situated at 614 Oronoco Street in Alexandria, Virginia, the Lee-Fendall House is more than just an architectural landmark. Built in 1785 by Philip Richard Fendall, the home reflects his legacy and the intricate tapestry of his life. Today, the Fendall burial mystery—whether he was truly laid to rest at Ivy … Read more