Welcome to the Arlington Sites Preserve

Welcome to the Arlington Sites Preserve. . , This preserve is the culmination of years of effort by several groups to ensure its permanent protection. It is now owned by The Archaeological Conservancy, and contains the remains of archaeological sites ranging from prehistoric settlement through the 19th century. Preserving these sites makes future research possible that could let us know more about the people who lived here and how they shaped, and were shaped by, Virginia's Eastern Shore., The discovery of archaeological deposits in advance of development of a residential subdivision prompted local citizens to take action to protect this important heritage. This group formed The Arlington Foundation in 1997, which acquired the 7.3-acre parcel containing the archaeological sites to preserve them. The Foundation would later be given the property containing the Custis Tombs by Preservation Virginia. Until 2021, the Foundation managed these properties, conducted research and outreach, and protected the sites from development. As membership declined, the Foundation decided to donate the properties to The Archaeological Conservancy to ensure they would continue to be preserved. The Conservancy is committed to keeping the sites open to the public, which is made possible through a partnership with the local Northampton Historic Preservation Society., Since 1980, The Archaeological Conservancy has been the only national nonprofit dedicated to the permanent preservation of archaeological sites. The Conservancy promotes "conservation archaeology," and encourages the use of non-invasive techniques and limited excavation, ensuring a portion of a site always remains unexcavated. You can find more information at https://www.archaeologicalconservancy.org/., The mission of the Northampton Historic Preservation Society is to preserve the historic heritage of properties primarily in Northampton County, Virginia through education, advocacy, and restoration activities. The Society is responsible for various preservation projects in the region and regularly holds lectures and other events about the history of the area. For more information, please visit https://northamptonhistoricpreservationsociety.com/., The properties are further protected by preservation easements held by the Virginia Department of Historic Resources. Artifacts from the site are housed with the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation.,

The site is worthy of further excavation and study not just because the name Arlington recalls some of Virginia's most famous sons…the plantation was the work of numerous slaves and servants who made the bricks, hauled the tiles, and performed the heavy work for a few skilled masons and carpenters. , - Dr. Cary Carson, Vice President for Research, The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation

, Preserve Rules , A mowed path runs through the property. Please stay on the path and be respectful of the land, plants, and animals. Any ground-disturbing activity is strictly forbidden. Please clean-up after yourselves, including any dog waste, and do not litter., The preserve closes at dusk., If you ever see anyone engaging in questionable activities on the property, please contact the Conservancy at 301-682-6359.