Who is buried in front of Arlington House?
George Washington Parke Custis and his wife, Mary Lee Fitzhugh, lived at Arlington House until their deaths in 1857 and 1853, respectively. They are buried in what is now Section 13 of Arlington National Cemetery.
What happened to the Arlington House?
During the American Civil War, the house was seized by the Union Army who proceeded to turn the plantation into a military cemetery, Arlington National Cemetery. Today, the National Park Service serves as the steward of this important resource to ensure its preservation for future generations.
Can you go in Arlington House?
Access to Arlington House is through Arlington National Cemetery either from the Cemetery’s Parking Garage or by Arlington Cemetery Metro. You cannot drive directly to Arlington House. If late, Arlington House staff has discretion to limit/deny tour enter due to space limitations.
Who owned the property that is now Arlington Cemetery?
The Arlington estate was originally owned by George Washington Parke Custis, adopted grandson of George Washington. His daughter Mary Anna Randolph Custis, who married Robert E. Lee, inherited the estate. It was abandoned by the Lees during the Civil War and used as headquarters for the Union army.
What happened to Robert E Lee’s plantation?
Post-Civil War In April 1874, Robert E. Lee’s eldest son, George Washington Custis Lee, filed suit against the United States government in a Virginia circuit court to regain the property. The court, by a 5–4 majority, found that the estate had been “illegally confiscated” in 1864 and ordered it returned.
Is Arlington Cemetery free?
The site is open to the public 365 days a year with free admission for those who wish to tour the site and pay their respects.
Why is Robert E. Lee’s house at Arlington?
It overlooks the Potomac River and the National Mall in Washington, D.C. During the American Civil War, the grounds of the mansion were selected as the site of Arlington National Cemetery, in part to ensure that Lee would never again be able to return to his home. …