On view at The Lyceum: Alexandria's History Museum, through March 28, 2004.

History Makers offers a glimpse into the stories of a few Alexandrians who are represented in The Lyceum's collection through a variety of artifacts. Most of the people profiled in the exhibit never became famous, but learning about them helps us make a more personal connection to the past. This, in turn, gives us the opportunity to gain a better insight into the present, and ourselves. The artifacts provide tangible connections to the people's lives and their community. Each piece helps to tell their stories.

The exhibit features some unusual items and recent acquisitions from The Lyceum's collections, including fine silver pieces, a secretary, and a wheelbarrow -- all made in local shops -- along with an early 19th-century account book from an Alexandria merchant, and the late 18th-century meeting minutes of one of the city's first fire companies (the Sun Fire Company).