Saint mary through history

On May 24, 1861, Union forces crossed the Potomac and occupied the city of Alexandria. If residents were found or suspected of aiding and abetting the enemy, their homes would be confiscated. Several parishioners, like former mayor Hugh Latham and Levi Hurdle who joined the Confederate army, had their homes confiscated. The Downey-Weiners house had been converted into a hospital. Soldiers treated there would write their names and addresses on the walls of the house so that their families could be notified in case they died. Most churches in Alexandria were closed and converted into hospitals, and any church that refused to pray the required prayer for President Lincoln would be closed. However, despite Saint Mary pastor Father Kroes’s southern sympathies, Saint Mary church stayed open. This was mostly due to the large number of Irish Catholics serving in the Union army who were stationed in Alexandria. Father Kroes kept good relationships with the Union chaplains and soldiers, serving anyone who needed the aid of the church.

The war had a major impact on the social activities of Saint Mary. Boat excursions on the Potomac were very popular at the time, especially as fundraisers. However, the occupation of Alexandria and blockade on the Potomac made it nearly impossible to have any excursions. In July of 1864, Saint Mary was given special permission by General Slough to have a boat excursion to Glymont. He even allowed the Brigade Band to accompany them. Many came to Glymont and enjoyed dancing, fishing, and picnicking, putting aside the worries and troubles of the war. The Late Fair was another Saint Mary’s tradition that continued through the war. Entertainment included a soda fountain, musical monkey, raffles, and hot meals. Parishioners and non-Catholics alike attend the event.