NPS photo

Furnishing from Arlington House, The Robert E. Lee Memorial are displayed at Friendship Hill during the restoration work at Arlington House

The museum collection from Arlington House, The Robert E. Lee Memorial consists of over 3,300 objects including personal items, books, and furniture once owned by the Lee family. Most of these objects will be placed on temporary display at Friendship Hill National Historic Site, Albert Gallatin’s 1789 Pennsylvania home. This action not only ensures continued public access, but will also save up to $200,000 per year in museum storage costs.

Following the collections move, the National Park Service initiated restoration projects inside the Arlington House mansion. Improvements include lead paint abatement, plaster and window repair, and painting and rehabilitation of original flooring. Anticipated design work will address the installation of a new fire suppression system and improvements that will offer increased protection from damages caused by a lack of ventilation and humidity control.