History of Arlington County and Old Town Alexandria

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Questions and Answers

What major transformation occurred to George Washington Parke Custis's plantation during the Civil War?

It was transformed into a shopping mall.

It was divided among local farmers.

It was turned into a residential neighborhood.

It became a military stronghold. (correct)

Which memorial in Arlington is inspired by a World War II photograph?

U.S. Air Force Memorial

Marine Corps War Memorial (correct)

Arlington National Cemetery Memorial

Pentagon Memorial

Why did Alexandria request to be returned to Virginia from the District of Columbia?

In response to federal occupation.

Due to neglect and arrested development. (correct)

To restore its agricultural roots.

To enhance its military defenses.

What is notable about the U.S. Air Force Memorial?

It has three spires reminiscent of jet contrails. Signup and view all the answers

What was Arlington primarily characterized by in the 19th century before its recovery?

Farmland Signup and view all the answers

What was a significant factor in Arlington's growth during the early 20th century?

Growth in government employment. Signup and view all the answers

Which statement accurately describes Arlington's population today?

It is ethnically and economically diverse. Signup and view all the answers

What event marked the recognition of Old Town Alexandria's historic value?

The country's bicentennial celebration in 1976. Signup and view all the answers

What year was the Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary opened?

1792 Signup and view all the answers

Which historic site served as the home of northern Virginia's first congressman?

Sully Historic Site Signup and view all the answers

What significant addition was made to Potomac Park in 1912?

Cherry trees Signup and view all the answers

Which city is known for having a growing metropolis of shops, offices, and restaurants?

Bethesda–Chevy Chase Signup and view all the answers

What type of community is McLean described as?

Wealthy Signup and view all the answers

The Theodore Roosevelt Island is dedicated to which U.S. President?

Theodore Roosevelt Signup and view all the answers

What type of memorial is the Lincoln Memorial?

Presidential memorial Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following locations is recognized for its ethnic and economic diversity?

Silver Spring Signup and view all the answers

What is significant about the Great Falls Park?

It offers views of the Potomac River's rapids. Signup and view all the answers

Which memorial is dedicated to veterans of the Vietnam War?

Vietnam War Veterans Memorial Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Arlington County, Virginia

Was part of the District of Columbia until 1846.
Primarily farmland in the 19th century, severely impacted by the Civil War, taking over 30 years to recover.
George Washington Parke Custis's 1,100-acre plantation was seized during the Civil War, becoming Arlington National Cemetery.
Became a popular bedroom community for Washington D.C. due to proximity in the first half of the 20th century.
Population is ethnically and economically diverse.
Features notable landmarks such as the Marine Corps War Memorial (Iwo Jima), the largest cast bronze statuary group globally.
The U.S. Air Force Memorial, with three stainless-steel spires, is also situated near the cemetery.

Old Town Alexandria, Virginia

Rival port city to Georgetown in the 18th century.
Part of the District of Columbia from 1791 to 1846.
Experienced economic decline in the first half of the 19th century.
Returned to Virginia in 1846.
Featured Confederate sympathies during the Civil War, later occupied by federal troops.
Historic buildings like Gadsby's hotel and tavern, Carlyle House (1752), and Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary (1792) were restored.
Became more accessible with subway stations opened in 1983, leading to renewed interest and development.

Fairfax County, Virginia

Features historic properties including George Washington's Mount Vernon, Martha Washington's granddaughter's Woodlawn Plantation, and George Mason's Gunston Hall.
Includes George Mason University's Center for the Arts and the Fairfax Symphony.
McLean is a wealthy community with the Claude Moore Colonial Farm at Turkey Run.
Chantilly boasts Sully Historic Site (1794), the home of Richard Bland Lee.

Montgomery County, Maryland

Bethesda-Chevy Chase is a growing metropolis of shops, high-rise buildings, and expensive housing.
Strathmore is an arts and exhibition complex in North Bethesda.
Silver Spring is a diverse suburb of Washington.
Takoma Park features Victorian-style homes, shops, and festivals.

Prince George's County, Maryland

Houses the National Aeronautics and Space Administration's Goddard Space Flight Center and the University of Maryland.

Parks and Memorials in the Washington, D.C. Area

Potomac Park (1897): Created by reclamation of riverland, includes cherry trees (gift from Japan in 1912), memorials (Lincoln, Vietnam War, etc.), and athletic facilities.
Theodore Roosevelt Island (1967): A 91-acre wildlife preserve.
Numerous other Washington parks mentioned, including Meridian Hill, Montrose, Glover-Archibald, Franciscan Monastery grounds, and Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens.

###Other Notable Locations

The Pentagon, constructed during WWII to consolidate military branches, is located near Arlington National Cemetery.
The National Air and Space Museum's Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center is near Dulles Airport.
Great Falls Park, located on the Potomac River, offers views of the cascades and rapids and a glimpse into 18th- and 19th-century canal history.

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Description

Explore the rich historical contexts of Arlington County and Old Town Alexandria in Virginia. Learn about their transformations from farmland to vibrant communities and the significant events that shaped their identities, especially during the Civil War era.