Alexandria, VA – Ivy Hill Cemetery, a serene and storied burial ground nestled at 2823 King Street, has been officially added to the National Register of Historic Places, a prestigious designation overseen by the National Park Service.
Started with family burials in 1811 and formally chartered in 1854, Ivy Hill spans 22 acres of rolling hills and woodland that includes a natural stream. The non-denominational cemetery is not only a final resting place for generations of Alexandrians, but also a haven for local wildlife and a favorite stop for dog walkers seeking a peaceful stroll.
Catherine Weinraub, the cemetery’s historian, noted the significance of the designation, explaining that “The National Park Service is cautious about listing cemeteries on the Register because they are often linked to family history, ethnic identity, and religion.”
Established in 1966 under the National Historic Preservation Act, the National Register of Historic Places is the federal government’s official list of sites deemed worthy of preservation for their historical and cultural significance.
The cemetery’s inclusion in the Register marks a milestone in a years-long effort, championed in part by Vincent Turner, a determined University of Maryland graduate student whose research and advocacy were instrumental in securing the honor.
A more in-depth feature on Ivy Hill’s storied past and Turner’s role in its recognition will be in the June issue of Zebra.
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