Past Events

  • In Defense of Freedom

    Glencarlyn Library 300 S. Kensington Street, Arlington, VA, United States

    At the start of the Civil War in 1861, Arlington was at the center of a significant military conflict. It witnessed many minor skirmishes and military actions. The county's strategic location required Union soldiers to build fortifications known as the "Arlington Line" to protect the capital, Washington. However, these forts and camps had another unintended […]

  • Memorializing the Enslaved in Arlington: Dedication for Humphrey Albert and Priscilla Willis

    Intersection of Key and N. Highland 3103 Key Boulevard, Arlington, United States

    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).  The markers are placed in the sidewalk at the last known location where these enslaved people lived. Memorializing […]

  • Memorializing the Enslaved of Arlington: Columbia Pike

    1515 Columbia Pike 1515 Columbia Pike, Arlington, United States

    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).  The markers are placed in the sidewalk at the last known location where these enslaved people lived. Memorializing […]

  • Who Were the Enslaved People at the Ball-Sellers House?

    Ball-Sellers House 5620 3rd Street, South, Arlington VA 22204, VA, United States

    The Ball-Sellers House is celebrating 50 years of ownership of this c.1750 farmhouse when Marian Sellers donated it to the Arlington Historical Society. We have so much history to share, […]

  • Julia Roberts’ Freedom Suit

    Reinsch Library Auditorium, Marymount University 2807 North Glebe Road, Arlington

    In 1801, a wealthy landowner who lived in present-day Arlington County freed his slaves and their descendants. His deed of emancipation would have ripple effects across Northern Virginia—especially for one woman, Julia Roberts, who sued over her long-promised freedom while living near the Barcroft, Arlington Forest, and Buckingham neighborhoods. Her case eventually wound up before […]

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