Programs

AHS has programs designed to support our mission including two museums open free to the public:

  • The Arlington Historical Museum is the oldest school house in the county. It is open free year round to the public with exhibits that span Native America through 9/11. The museum also offers quarterly temporary exhibits on special topics in Arlington County history.
  • The Ball-Sellers House, the oldest building in the county (c. 1750), offers a free docent-led tour Saturday afternoons from April through October as well as  summer holidays. This colonial era farm house enables visitors to learn how an average farmer lived and worked and traces Arlington history through the residents who lived there since 1742.

Monthly programs including dynamic lectures, tours, and special events highlighting aspects of local history.

Host an annual banquet with a keynote speaker on a local history topic and awards for  individuals and/or organizations who make exceptional contributions to Arlington history.

Publication of the annual Arlington Historical Magazine featuring original research on local history. All contents of issues since 1957 (except the current year) are online, free.

The Annual High School Essay Contest for high school students on on a stated theme of Arlington County history. Winners are given countywide publicity and awarded a cash prize; their essay is published in the Arlington Historical Magazine.

Collaboration on joint projects with Arlington’s Black Heritage Museum related to the African American experience in the county.

Financial Information

AHS does not receive government funding at any level. AHS relies solely on membership dues and donations to support all programs and the two museums. AHS is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization. Click HERE for the current Form 990-EZ Short Form: Return of Organization Exempt from Income Tax.