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Three Decisions
The Lee sons slept here growing up. In 1861 each of them had to decide whether to fight for Virginia or stay with the Union. Custis was in the US Army, Rooney had served previously, and Rob was in college. All three ultimately fought for the Confederacy despite their strong Unionist beliefs.
“Tell Custis he must consult his own judgment, reason, and conscience as to the course he may take. I do not wish him to be guided by my wishes or example. If I have done wrong, let him do better.”–Robert E. Lee, May 13, 1861
Custis Lee was Robert E. Lee’s oldest son and heir to Arlington House. After the Civil War, he sued the federal government over Arlington and received compensation in 1883.
