Alexander Henderson Grave Marking

September 21, 2003

Revolutionary War Graves Chairman Bill Simpson unveils the plaque commemorating the patriotic service of Alexander Henderson. One of Alexander's sons, Archibald, was the longest serving Commandant of the Marine Corps.  He held that office for 39 years, 1820-1859. About 75 people attended the grave-marking program, including Henderson descendants; a Marine Corps color guard and firing squad from Marine Corps Base, Quantico; the Choraliers singing group; members of the SAR, DAR, C.A.R.; and local officials and guests. Chapter President Bob Bowen looks on.

"Post the Colors"	Commemorative Plaque	USMC Color Guard

The tomb of Alexander and Sarah Henderson is at the top of a peaceful knoll overlooking Dolphin Beach in the Montclair Estates section of Dumfries in Prince William County, VA. Six chapter members attended the program including President Bob Bowen, Vice President Terry Block, Secretary Don Bowers, Historian Conway Richardson, Revolutionary War Graves Chairman Bill Simpson and Will Simpson.

The commemorative plaque was presented to Barry Ward, President of Historic Virginia Dumfries, Inc., for permanent display in the Weems-Botts Museum.	Bill Simpson describes the patriotic service of Alexander Henderson.	A SAR Certificate of Commendation was presented to Janet Gorn, President of the Montclair Property Owners Association for her assistance in making the program possible.

President Bowen presents a commemorative flag to David Henderson of Charleston, WV;	Bruce Henderson of Henderson Arkansas;	Ladies of the DAR: Sue Stalder, Jeanne Purkins, Beth Atkinson, Bill of Rights Chapter Regent; Helen Bowen, and Shelly Block,  Prince Williams Resolves Chapter Regent.

The 25-member Choraliers singing group offered a medley of patriotic songs before and during the grave marking ceremony.

Henderson descendants, including David who traveled from Charleston, West Virginia, and Bruce, who traveled from Henderson, Arkansas, pose with member of the Marine Corps Color Guard & Firing Squad; the VASSAR Color Guard; and representatives of the Col. Fielding Lewis Chapter of the SAR; the Bill of Rights Chapter of the DAR; the Prince William Resolves Chapter of the DAR; and the Light Horse Harry Lee Society of the C.A.R.