The Ball-Sellers House (in Arlington) was originally in Fairfax County when Lord Fairfax established the county for King George II in 1742. The Arlington Historical Society will share stories of the exceptional women who owned this farmhouse throughout its 280-year history. We’ll learn about Elizabeth Payne Ball, the wife of the builder who took a […]
In 1946, after four years of a world war, the citizens of Arlington focused on local challenges, highlighted in the fall by an aggressive County Board campaign from a political newcomer who challenged the local Byrd Machine in Arlington. The story includes a controversy over our governance structure, extreme unhappiness with the school system, and […]
Join us for a 15-Minute History with local author John Milliken, who will compare two Virginia elections—separated by a generation—to reveal how shifting demographics, economic trends, and legal changes have shaped both the Commonwealth and Arlington over time. FREE! Come for the talk and tour the museum. 2nd floor, Arlington Historical Museum
Join David Pearson, former AHS president, to learn about how Arlington County planned transportation in the early 1960s and what we now have as a result. Our speaker will use the maps in the current Map Exhibit on the second floor to explain the first General Land Use Plan (GLUP), show what was built, paths […]
Experience the vibrant, story-filled work of artist Zane Killgo, an Arlington County visual artist whose bold use of color and mixed media explores community, identity, and the changing urban landscape. Killgo’s paintings and multimedia works reflect the narratives of local neighborhoods in transition, focusing on gentrification, resilience, and the lived experiences of the people who […]
"Genius Unbroken" is the first comprehensive biography to bring the extraordinary life of Dr. Charles Drew, the "Father of the Blood Bank," into focus. Born into Washington D.C.'s vibrant African American community at the turn of the 20th century, Drew rose on the strength of extraordinary physical and intellectual talents to become a groundbreaking medical […]
Experience the vibrant, story-filled work of artist Zane Killgo, an Arlington County visual artist whose bold use of color and mixed media explores community, identity, and the changing urban landscape. Killgo’s paintings and multimedia works reflect the narratives of local neighborhoods in transition, focusing on gentrification, resilience, and the lived experiences of the people who […]
Memorializing the Enslaved in Arlington leaders, Jessica Kaplan (Arlington Historical Society) and Scott Taylor (Director of the Black Heritage Museum of Arlington) will discuss the project, its goals, history, successes, and challenges. Hosted by the Woman's Club of Arlington as part of their celebration of Black History Month. Since the late 1700s, African Americans made […]
Glencarlyn Library will host Arlington History Society President Peter Vaselopulos for a special presentation about upcoming Arlington County events to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution. Highlighting what will be a multi-month program of commemoration activities will be Arlington HistoryFest 250, a free, one-day outdoor festival that will take place on Saturday, May […]
The Arlington Historical Society is participating in the county's Feel the Heritage Festival. This is a vibrant gathering for all ages to celebrate history, culture, and community together! The festival welcomes hundreds each year to learn about the Arlington’s historically African-American neighborhoods while enjoying live entertainment, delicious food and dozens of vendors. This festival brings together […]