Rediscover Arlington’s History
The Arlington Historical Society (AHS) Museum, after closing last summer for essential preservation and renovation work, will reopen on Saturday, May 3, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
The reopening of the AHS museum located at 1805 S. Arlington Ridge Road 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 states 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. The Museum’s 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, Memorializing the Enslaved, 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 will have the chance to meet Barbara Noe Kennedy, author of “100 Things to Do in Arlington Before You Die.”
Following the May 3 reopening, 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 with us, please email info@
