Arlington's Turbulent Journey: An Evening With Robert E. Lee

Robert E. Lee's connection to Arlington is steeped in history and complexity, as it reflects both personal and national turbulence. Arlington House, located in Virginia, was originally built by George Washington Parke Custis as a shrine to George Washington.  GW Parke Custis, daughter, Mary Custis was born at Arlington House and lived there for many years, later marrying Robert E. Lee. As the "Civil War" loomed, Lee faced a pivotal decision. Despite his deep ties to the Union, Lee chose to side with his home state of Virginia when it seceded, leading to his resignation from the U.S. Army.

As the war progressed, Arlington House was seized by Union forces, and the estate was transformed into a military cemetery. This marked the beginning of what is now Arlington National Cemetery.  Mary's inheritance and Robert's struggle to protect it mirrored the broader narrative of a nation divided and the efforts to…