USA Today

Gannett needed a large block of office space for the new venture and chose six floors in a brand new silver office building at 1000 Wilson Boulevard, the tallest skyscraper in Rosslyn at the time. In October 1981, the USA Today planners moved their operation to Arlington. Two months later, Neuharth announced publicly that the first edition of USA Today would appear on September 15, 1982.

Ayers Hardware Store Closing

Ayers traces its roots to 1948, when John W. Ayers opened J. W. Ayers Five and Ten Cents Store in the growing Westover shopping district. Arlington was expanding rapidly after World War II, and Westover was emerging as one of the county's most vibrant neighborhoods. The new store quickly became a cornerstone of the community.

Family Tea House

Today Chinese restaurants are very common in Arlington county. But what is considered the “first” Chinese restaurant in Arlington county? Early 1950s newspapers and ads reference a Family Tea House in Cherrydale, established by Jim Wing and his family. Newspapers called the Family Tea House a “landmark” and the first Chinese restaurant in the county.

Crystal City

The corridor’s proximity to Reagan National Airport, the Pentagon, and Washington, D.C. stimulated major redevelopment initiatives for the area.

Marcey Family

Arlington Restaurants

Arlington Beach

Copyright 2026 Arlington Historical Society. All rights reserved.