Join AHS in exploring Civil War life in Arlington. Meet famed war photographer, Mathew Brady, US Colored Troops and learn where Camp Casey was located and why it was so difficult to pinpoint, see AHS artifacts from US Army camps and forts AND MORE!
An original scripted reenactment brings history alive! Join us for a performance of an original play depicting an 1842 trial - Julia Roberts v. Austin Adams and Anne Harding - in which Julia Roberts, an enslaved woman, sues to win her freedom. This script is based on original documents, notes on the testimony from the 1842 […]
The Arlington Historical Society and the Black Heritage Museum of Arlington invite you to the unveiling of “Stumbling Stones.” These bronze markers commemorate the lives of the enslaved people who helped build our county (and our country) and are placed in the sidewalk at the last known site of their enslavement. Memorializing the Enslaved in […]
Step into Arlington’s classrooms past and present in our newest exhibit exploring the history of public education in the county. From one-room schoolhouses to today’s innovative learning environments, discover how generations of students, teachers, and communities have shaped and been shaped by education in Arlington. Show your school spirit! Wear something from your alma mater […]
Join us for a special dedication for Julia Roberts who will be portrayed by an historical reenactor who will talk about her enslavement and courageous path to freedom. We will also learn about the life of the young boy (his name is unknown) enslaved along with Julia in the Arlington Forest neighborhood. Memorializing the Enslaved […]
The Arlington VA250 Committee is hosting an Arlington HistoryFest 250, a free, one-day outdoor festival commemorating the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution. It will be held on Saturday, May 9, 2026, from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. at Kenmore Middle School. “We’re proud to welcome visitors and residents to experience the living legacy of […]
Walk in the footsteps of George Washington on a guided walking tour with local historian, Kevin Vincent. In 1775, George Washington bought 1200-acres of forest in what is now Arlington. After the Revolutionary War, he returned home and surveyed his property. On the walk you’ll start with a mini tour of the Ball-Sellers House (the […]
The Arlington Historical Society is proud to help celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Charles R. Drew. We’ll have a table, artifacts, a quiz, and lots of info on the man who became known as the Father of the Blood Bank. Find out how an Arlington elementary school appreciates its namesake. Visit our table […]
Join us as we commemorate the lives of those who were enslaved by Basil Hall. This ceremony will take place at the intersection of Langston Boulevard and Cameron Street. Since the late 1700s, African Americans made important contributions to the development of Arlington County. Until recently, histories of Arlington often excluded or misrepresented their stories. […]
Join us as we help the Aurora Hills Library celebrate 100 years! Come celebrate a century of stories, community, and connection! There will be drop-in activities, crafts, historical displays, outdoor activities (weather permitting), and recordings of written and oral memories of the library. The Arlington Historical Society will be on site to present information on […]