Where memory, beauty, and America’s most historic cemetery complex meet.
Framed by the city’s most storied Star Magnolia—part of Alexandria’s unparalleled collection of champion trees—the Presbyterian Cemetery welcomes spring in full bloom.
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 Unveiling the stories behind the notable figures of history can provide a fascinating insight into the past. One such significant individual is Cavan Boa, who played a crucial role in the American Revolutionary War and held the prestigious title of George Washington’s tailor. Cavan Boa: An Overview Cavan Boa (1756 – August 20, 1798) … Read more
Origins of the Quaker Cemetery In Alexandria, the Quaker community established a burial site in 1784 on Queen Street, near its intersection with Washington Street. This site replaced an earlier burial location at the 300 block of South St. Asaph Street, which also served as the Quaker’s first meeting venue. Transition to a New Resting … Read more
Early Life and Education Dr. James Craik’s journey began in Dumfriesshire, Scotland, where he was born. He pursued medical education at the prestigious University of Edinburgh, setting the stage for a remarkable career. After his studies, he served as a surgeon in the British Army, with postings in the West Indies, before making a life-changing … Read more
Introduction: A Life Rooted in History and Community Born as the son of William Ramsay, a founding figure of Alexandria and its first Mayor, Colonel Dennis Ramsay’s upbringing at the Ramsay House laid the foundation for a life intertwined with significant historical events and unwavering community commitment. Dennis was born in Alexandria in 1756. He … Read more
Guardian of Farewell: An Enduring Legacy In the heart of history-rich Alexandria, an unassuming figure stands tall among the annals of time. Reverend James Muir, D.D., a man whose life wove together faith, leadership, compassion, and historical significance, left an indelible mark on the Old Presbyterian Meeting House and its community. His story, filled with … Read more
Caroline Branham (1764 – March 13, 1843), enslaved at Mount Vernon and later at Arlington House, is buried in an unmarked grave at Christ Church without a gravestone. Arlington House was built and owned by George Washington Parke Custis (April 30, 1781 – October 10, 1857). Caroline served as the chambermaid to Martha Dandridge Washington … Read more
Buried in Alexandria’s Christ Church Cemetery is Major Samuel Cooper. He lived from June 13, 1757, to August 19, 1840. When he was 16 years old, he participated in the Boston Tea Party on December 16, 1773, as a member of the Sons of Liberty. During the event, they threw over 340 tea chests (92,000 … Read more
A Nation Mourns The passing of a great figure often marks a pivotal moment in history, and George Washington’s departure on December 14, 1799, was no exception. In a surprising turn of events, he succumbed to a brief two-day illness, leaving behind a nation in mourning. His funerals and the historic commemorations held at the … Read more
The Lee-Fendall House Legacy Philip Richard Fendall II, born on December 18, 1794, and passing on February 16, 1868, was a significant figure in American history. He spent his formative years in the Lee-Fendall House, a historic residence built by his father, Philip Richard Fendall, in 1785. This house stands as a testament to the … Read more
Historic Context The historic St. Mary’s Catholic Church Cemetery is situated at 1000 S. Royal Street, Alexandria, VA 22314, and boasts a rich history dating all the way back to 1795. Holding the distinction of being the oldest Catholic Cemetery in Virginia, this sacred ground has become a testament to the passage of time. Within … Read more
Step into history with our expert-led walking tours of Alexandria’s most storied cemeteries.
David Heiby
Public Historian & Tour Leader
“Attended an excellent tour this morning with my DAR chapter of the Wilkes Street Cemetery led by historians David Heiby and Madeline Feierstein of @gravestonestoriesva. They were a wealth of knowledge about early U.S. and Virginia history. Fascinating!”
— Amy D., Daughter of the American Revolution Member
We offer engaging historical talks tailored to museums, genealogical societies, preservation groups, and other organizations interested in Alexandria’s rich past.
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.
Joseph McCoy: Lynching Victim — No Known Grave
On April 23, 1897, 18-year-old Joseph McCoy was lynched by a white mob in Alexandria after being forcibly removed from police custody. Beaten, shot, and hanged at Cameron and Lee Streets, McCoy was buried in an unmarked pauper’s grave in Penny Hill Cemetery. His story endures as a solemn reminder of racial terror and injustice. Say his name.
No gravestone. Buried in Penny Hill Cemetery, Alexandria, VA. →
Explore Alexandria’s Notable Burials
Curious who’s buried in Alexandria? Here are just a few:
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.
May 6 – D.A.R. Chapter Talk (Private)
A private presentation on the Lee-Fendall House for a local chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution. More public events coming soon!
April 15 – Mount Vernon Genealogical Society
A full house joined us at the Hollin Hall Senior Center for a deep dive into Alexandria’s Wilkes Street Cemetery Complex—home to more than 35,000 stories of American history.
April 5 – Honoring Civil War Sacrifice
We marked the 160th anniversary of Grosvenor Branch Hospital’s closure at the Lee-Fendall House, reading the names of 10 Union soldiers buried in Alexandria.
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.
