The term refers to Arlington County’s unique, collaborative, and non-partisan approach to local governance and community engagement, rooted in its shift from rural to suburban in the 20th century, spurred by federal growth and the implementation of the County Manager system in 1932
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The bell—which started ringing in 1893 when the Hume School opened–was produced by the oldest bell foundry in the country, the McShane Bell Foundry of Baltimore. Founded in 1856, McShane has produced more than 300,000 bells for churches, municipal buildings, and schools all over the world.
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December is a season of hope and giving. That is why we hope you will consider AHS and give a special end-of-year gift to our Annual “Bell Ringer Campaign.” The campaign is named for our school bell that has been ringing out history since 1893.
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On Giving Tuesday – December 2, 2025 – people around the world use the power of generosity to support their local communities. This year, your generous contributions will help AHS renovate its facilities and create new history exhibits.
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It became increasingly clear that the form of government originally prescribed by the Virginia Constitution of 1902 was not meeting the needs of those counties which were gradually becoming more urbanized. In its original form, the 1902 Constitution set up a rigid system of county organization and government, and the General Assembly was powerless to comply with the demands of the leaders of Arlington for an improved system.
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In 1987, he was elected to the Arlington County Board, becoming the first African American elected to the board since Reconstruction.
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Every museum store purchase supports our mission to strengthen our community by building a better understanding of local history. We have unique gift ideas made by local artisans, as well as gift memberships to the Arlington Historical Society and books about Arlington history.
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Each year, we add new artifacts, photographs, and documents that help tell the many stories of life in Arlington.
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The Arlington Historical Museum recently hosted the NOVA chapter of the Jack and Jill Club of America, dedicated to nurturing future African American leaders.
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In March 1780, King Louis XVI approved the “expédition particulière,” which sent French troops to the United States.
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