Hidden in Plain Sight

From failed land deals to secret wartime hideaways, the ghosts of plantations past have many stories to tell.

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More on the people, places, and culture defining Arlington, McLean and Falls Church.
Robert E. Lee Library of Congress)

Family Ties

  • Martha Custis Washington: Mother of John Parke Custis. Married George Washington after the death of her first husband. Grandmother and adoptive mother of George Washington Parke Custis.
  • John Parke Custis: Son of Martha Custis Washington from her first marriage. Bought the Alexander property and named it Abingdon. Father of George Washington Parke Custis of Arlington House.
  • George Washington Parke Custis: Built Arlington House. Son of John Parke Custis of Abingdon. Grandson and adoptive son of Martha Custis Washington. Step-grandson and adoptive son of George Washington. Father-in-law of Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lee.
  • Robert E. Lee : Son of Henry “Light-Horse Harry” Lee, who originally owned the land that would become Salona. Son-in-law of G.W.P. Custis, who built Arlington House.

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