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
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
Robert F. Prettyman, a revered carriage maker, rests peacefully within Alexandria’s Presbyterian Cemetery. His legacy endures through the iconic hose-reel carriage crafted for the Friendship Fire Company, where he held a cherished place as a valued member. In 1842, Robert joined his family’s thriving carriage-making enterprise, renowned for its exquisite coaches and carriages, celebrated for … Read more
Emanuel Ethelbert Downham was a prominent figure in Alexandria, commonly known as E.E. Downham (March 23, 1839 – September 17, 1921). Originally from New Jersey, he arrived in Alexandria in 1862, engaging in liquor distribution, mainly selling whiskey to Union Troops. In 1865, he married Sarah Miranda Price, the daughter of George E. Price, a … Read more
