Presbyterian Cemetery

04/03/2026

One of the most meaningful research projects I have worked on is now available on Gravestone Stories: a page documenting Revolutionary War veterans and patriots buried in Alexandria.

I published this research page in March in advance of the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, and it is already drawing strong interest and a growing number of views. This expanding registry brings together 162 verified burials across Alexandria’s historic cemeteries, including many individuals laid to rest in the Presbyterian Cemetery. It reflects years of research in burial records, archives, military service files, and local history sources.

As superintendent of the Presbyterian Cemetery, it is especially meaningful to help tell the stories of those buried here who helped shape the founding of the United States.

Read the full page here:
https://gravestonestories.com/alexandria-revolutionary-war-patriots/

Alexandria Revolutionary War patriots number 162, among the largest concentrations in Virginia. Search our complete registry across 13 historic burial grounds

03/27/2026

Spring is peaking at the Presbyterian Cemetery.

Our Japanese cherry trees are now in full bloom, creating one of the loveliest spring scenes in Alexandria. They are every bit as beautiful as the famous blossoms at Washington’s Tidal Basin—only here, you can enjoy them without the traffic, crowds, or parking headaches.

If you would like to see them in person, the vehicle gates to the cemetery will be open this Saturday from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. for those who wish to drive through and enjoy the blooms.

Beyond the blossoms, the Presbyterian Cemetery remains an active and historic burial ground, with burial plots and niches available for those seeking a place of lasting remembrance. Guided tours are also available for visitors who want to explore the deeper stories, history, and lives connected to this remarkable place.

Come see one of Alexandria’s most beautiful spring traditions in bloom.

Link to the cemetery website in the comments.

03/22/2026

Spring Has Arrived at the Presbyterian Cemetery

Our Star Magnolia is in full bloom—and it is one of the most striking sights in Alexandria right now.

Planted over 150 years ago, this Virginia State Champion Tree has stood watch over generations of history. Today, its white blossoms once again transform the Presbyterian Cemetery into something truly special.

A true crown jewel of the Wilkes Street Cemetery Complex.

And this is just the beginning. Other trees are starting to bloom, and soon the Japanese cherry trees will follow.

Visitors are welcome Saturdays from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM.
Guided tours are available for those who want to experience the stories behind the stones.

Come see where history lives—and blooms.

Link to the cemetery website in the comments.

02/10/2026

🚧 Vehicle Gate Closure – Saturday, February 14, 2026 🚧

Please note that the vehicle gates at the Presbyterian Cemetery & Columbarium will be closed on Saturday, February 14, 2026.

That day includes two major events in Old Town that will affect staffing and access:

A Wreath Laying Ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier of the American Revolutionary War at noon

The annual George Washington Birthday Parade, which begins at 2:00 p.m.

Between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., the Cemetery Superintendent will be leading guided tours of the historic 18th-century burial ground adjacent to the Old Presbyterian Meeting House and will not be available onsite at the Presbyterian Cemetery during normal Saturday vehicle gate hours.

Thank you for your understanding. Regular Saturday vehicle gate openings will resume the following week, weather permitting.

Join the Daughters of the American Revolution and the Sons of the American Revolution as they honor the Unknown Soldier of the Revolution with a wreath laying. Our historic Meeting…

02/05/2026

Cemetery Update:

The cemetery drive and pedestrian gate are now open again. You’re welcome to visit, but please use caution when walking — I was out on the grounds this week and found the footing pretty tough in places.

With the extreme cold in the forecast, the vehicle gates will remain closed this Saturday, February 7, 2026.

The vehicle gates will also be closed on Saturday, February 14, 2026, due to the George Washington Birthday Parade and related events in Old Town.

Thanks for your patience, and please take it slow out there.

Send a message to learn more

02/03/2026

The complex foreman and his team are working diligently to reopen the roads within the Wilkes Street Cemetery Complex, while continuing to support scheduled funerals. Conditions remain extremely treacherous.

Please do not walk on the packed ice unless absolutely necessary. Mr. Click has fallen several times, as have others.

The interior road of the Presbyterian Cemetery may reopen toward the end of this week. However, due to the forecast of bitter winds this Saturday, the vehicle gates will remain closed.

01/30/2026

Weather & Access Update – Cemetery Complex

Due to the recent sleet and ongoing icy conditions, vehicle access beyond the Wilkes Street & Hamilton Lane intersection is currently not possible. Hamilton Lane remains a solid sheet of ice and is unsafe for both vehicles and foot traffic.

For everyone’s safety, visitors and dog walkers are advised not to proceed past the intersection at this time.

Road conditions are being monitored, but access improvements are not expected for at least another week or two, depending on weather conditions.

We appreciate your patience and understanding as we prioritize safety. Updates will be shared here as conditions change.

01/23/2026

Due to the forecasted bitter wind conditions on Saturday, January 24, 2026, the Presbyterian Cemetery vehicle gates will not be opened during the normal Saturday hours of 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

In addition, with heavy snow forecast for Saturday night into Sunday, January 25, 2026, access through the pedestrian gate may be affected and temporarily inoperable due to freezing temperatures and wet conditions.

We expect operations to return to normal once the weather system passes and temperatures return to more seasonable conditions.

Send a message to learn more

12/08/2025

Wreaths Across America returns this Saturday, December 13, 2025, at the Alexandria National Cemetery, with the ceremony beginning at 9:30 a.m.

Please note that vehicle traffic throughout the Wilkes Street Cemetery Complex will be restricted starting at 8:00 a.m., including road closures and limited access leading up to and during the event.

The Presbyterian Cemetery will remain open to visitors, but vehicle access will be affected, and the vehicle gates will not reopen at the normal 11:00 a.m. time. Instead, they are expected to reopen closer to noon, once traffic flow and event activities allow.

Thank you for your patience and understanding as our community honors the more than 4,200 veterans resting at Alexandria National Cemetery.

Send a message to learn more

12/06/2025

Due to the Annual Scottish Walk Christmas Parade taking place in Old Town Alexandria this Saturday, vehicle access to the Presbyterian Cemetery may be affected.

If you need to enter the grounds using the pedestrian gate, please email the superintendent at cemetery@opmh.org. He will respond as soon as he is able.

Thank you for being so understanding during this busy community event.

Send a message to learn more

07/04/2025

Worship in the Presbyterian Cemetery – Sunday, July 6 at 10 AM

Wrap up the Fourth of July weekend with a meaningful moment of worship in one of Alexandria’s most peaceful and historic settings.

Join us this Sunday at 10:00 AM in the Presbyterian Cemetery for a special outdoor service. Bring a chair, a hat, and sunscreen, and come ready to reflect, reconnect, and rejoice together.

This sacred space offers a quiet beauty that makes it an ideal place to end the holiday weekend in community and gratitude.

All are welcome—we hope to see you there!

06/14/2025

Worship Among the Stones
Sunday, July 6 at 10:00 a.m.

Instead of its regular Sunday service, the Old Presbyterian Meeting House will gather for an exceptional outdoor worship service in the historic Presbyterian Cemetery. Surrounded by the stories of those who came before us, we invite all to join in this meaningful time of reflection, prayer, and music.

All are welcome.

Presbyterian Cemetery
600 Hamilton Avenue, Alexandria, VA 22314