Black History Archives - Page 2 of 3 - Arlington Historical Society

Nimrod Burke

February 20, 2025

Nimrod Burke (circa 1836–1914) was a Black soldier, scout, and patriot who fought for the United States Army during the Civil War. Born in Prince William County Virginia, Burke escaped to Ohio, where he built a life as a free man. He worked as a handyman under Marietta, Ohio, attorney and abolitionist Melvin Clarke.

The History of Slavery at the Ball-Sellers House

Hoffman-Boston Senior-Junior High School

October 20, 2024

On October 20, 1931, Hoffman-Boston Junior-Senior High School is dedicated with ceremonies. The school replaced an older, 4-room school known as Jefferson, on approximately the same site. The school was named to honor two people who had served as principals in African-American country schools: Edward Clarendon Hoffman and Ella Boston.

Joan Cooper

October 19, 2024

On this day in Arlington history, October 19, 2013, Joan Cooper is awarded the William Brittain Jr. Community Appreciation Award by the Arlington branch of the NAACP. Joan, an Arlington civic activist and community leader, fought for those in need across the area on issues ranging from public safety to education.

Abingdon

July 31, 2024

The Arlington Historical Magazine (AHM) has four great articles about the history of Abingdon.

The History of Upton’s Hill

July 28, 2024

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.