Arlington National Cemetery is one of the most hallowed grounds in the United States, a place where countless heroes are laid to rest. Among its many historical sites, one structure often captures the curiosity of visitors: the house known as the Arlington House or the Robert E. Lee Memorial. This article delves into the history of this iconic building, the figures associated with it, and its significance over the years.
The Arlington House, situated atop a hill overlooking the Potomac River, was originally constructed between 1802 and 1818. It was designed by George Washington Parke Custis, the step-grandson of George Washington himself. The house was built as a memorial to President Washington and served as a plantation home.
Custis was an influential figure in early American history, and his vision for the Arlington Estate was grand. Custis, who inherited the property from his mother, Mary Washington Custis, sought to create a home that reflected both his family's legacy and the ideals of the young nation. The estate encompassed over 1,100 acres, with the house serving as a focal point.
In 1831, Custis's daughter, Mary Anna Randolph Custis, married Robert E. Lee, a West Point graduate and an officer in the U.S. Army. The couple moved into Arlington House, and it became their home for the next 30 years. The Lee family expanded the estate, raising their children and hosting various social events. However, their idyllic life was disrupted by the outbreak of the Civil War.
When Virginia seceded from the Union in 1861, Robert E. Lee chose to side with the Confederate States. This decision had profound implications for Arlington House. As Lee departed to take command of the Confederate Army, the Union Army occupied the estate, effectively transforming it into a military stronghold.
In 1864, in an effort to ensure that the Lee family would not reclaim the estate, the federal government declared Arlington House and its surrounding land as a cemetery. This marked the beginning of Arlington National Cemetery, where soldiers who died in the Civil War and subsequent conflicts would be interred. The house itself became a symbol of the nation's struggle and sacrifice.
After the war, Arlington House fell into disrepair. The federal government took steps to preserve the building and its history. In 1883, it was officially designated as a memorial to Robert E. Lee; Over the years, numerous restoration efforts were undertaken to maintain its architectural integrity and historical significance.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, various organizations, including the Daughters of the American Revolution and the National Park Service, worked tirelessly to restore Arlington House. These efforts culminated in its designation as a National Historic Landmark in 1960. Today, it serves not only as a museum but also as a reminder of the complexities of American history.
Arlington House holds a unique place in American history, representing both the ideals of the Founding Fathers and the struggles of a nation divided. Its association with Robert E. Lee and the Civil War adds layers of complexity to its legacy. The house serves as a site for reflection and learning, where visitors can explore the intricate narratives that shaped the nation.
Today, Arlington House offers educational programs and tours that delve into its history, the lives of the Lee family, and the broader context of the Civil War. Visitors can engage with the stories of those who lived in the house, the soldiers who fought in the war, and the ongoing quest for reconciliation in America.
The question of who owned the House on the Hill at Arlington Cemetery is not merely a matter of historical ownership; it encompasses a rich tapestry of narratives that illustrate the evolution of a nation. From its origins as a family estate to its transformation into a national cemetery, Arlington House stands as a testament to the complexities of American heritage. As we unravel this mystery, we gain insight into the multifaceted nature of our history and the enduring impact of those who came before us.