Rediscover Arlington’s History
The Arlington Historical Society (AHS) Museum, after closing last summer for essential preservation and renovation work, reopened on Saturday, May 3, 2025.
Over 180 people came to see the museum and were greeted by a group of eager volunteers wanting to show off the new exhibits. The reopening of the AHS museum coincides with a growing interest in the history of the people, places, and events shaping Arlington County. It also comes just in time to celebrate two significant milestones in 2026: the 70th anniversary of AHS and the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.
Museum Director Bethany Baker says that the society has worked diligently over the past several months to update older exhibits and introduce new ones featuring original stories and historical signage. This effort involved AHS volunteers and community partners. The goal is to help visitors rediscover Arlington’s history, from the era of Native peoples to today’s vibrant multicultural community. According to AHS President David Pearson, the society’s mission, to improve our community by promoting knowledge of our local diverse history, is needed now more than ever.
Based on initial positive feedback from visitors the reopening presents an opportunity to revitalize public engagement with Arlington’s local history. There is room to celebrate notable successes, examine uncomfortable shortcomings, such as Arlington’s role in slavery and its continuing legacy in society, and consider how our past successes and challenges inform actions to be taken today.
One new exhibit, Enslavement in Arlington, highlights the lives of enslaved individuals who lived and labored in Arlington, honoring their contributions and resilience. The exhibit seeks to ensure their voices are acknowledged and remembered through historical records, artifacts, and personal stories.
During the reopening, visitors had a chance to meet Barbara Noe Kennedy, author of “100 Things to Do in Arlington Before You Die.” Of course, many were able to check off one of the book’s recommendations by visiting the museum.
One visitor to the museum was former Hume School student Lawrence Morrison. In 1942 he was six years old and attended first grade. He recalled how there were two class rooms on the main floor for grades 1-4. The upstairs contained 5th and 6th grade classes.
The Museum will resume regular visiting hours on Saturday and Sunday from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Those interested in a group tour or who would like to volunteer, please email info@
