Alexandria Town Crier

When Benjamin Fiore-Walker dons a tricorn hat, an embellished buttoned coat, and a fitted waistcoat with high socks and rounded shoes, he transforms into an alternate persona from the 1800s. “I am no longer Ben,” he says. “I am the town crier for the City of Alexandria.” Attached to his handmade baldric is a golden bell and a wooden scroll used for declaring energizing proclamations to curious onlookers at Alexandria’s beloved parades and hometown events.   

For Ben, stepping into the town crier costume is like adopting a different identity, offering him relief from modern concerns. For over 10 years, Ben’s role as Alexandria’s town crier has let him immerse himself in another era and embrace history. He is Alexandria’s second Black town crier since Peter Logan in 1819. Ben began as a docent at Gadsby’s Tavern Museum, sharing the building’s rich history. His fascination for history led him to show visitors hidden historical spots in Alexandria on a pedicab. He pointed out easily overlooked structures, but with Ben’s trained eye, he revealed hidden stories. Today, the town crier is part of Alexandria’s persona, reminding visitors of its significant past. 

However, Ben is not just Alexandria’s Town Crier. With over 30 years of experience advancing diversity and inclusion in academic and professional spaces, Ben is the Senior Director of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion and Professional Ethics at the American Political Science Association. His background as an Assistant Professor at Georgetown University School of Medicine and as Associate Dean for Diversity & Inclusion at Georgetown University equipped him with public speaking skills that transferred to his role as town crier. Ben is part of the history he shares with locals and visitors, his role is a reminder of the many forgotten town criers who dedicated their time to informing the public.