The History of Upton’s Hill

This exhibit highlights Upton’s Hill history as a prime example of the many layers of Arlington’s past. Upton’s Hill was a homestead and farm, a major logistics hub and defensive fort during the Civil War, a weekend country getaway for Washington’s elite, and a real estate developer’s delight. The following virtual exhibit was displayed at the Arlington Historical Museum from July to November 2021.

Samuel Smith

Samuel Smith was born enslaved in 1826. His enslavers, William and Catherine Minor, owned a farm called Springfield near the present-day site of Yorktown High School.

Copyright 2025 Arlington Historical Society. All rights reserved.