By: Carolanne Korolowicz
There is something special about establishing a home within walls that hold history. Arlington consists of a handful of late 19th-century houses, but few have helped shape a community like Glencarlyn’s 5501 3rd Street South. Coming soon to the market, a new owner gets the opportunity to continue this property’s story.
(Photo Courtesy of Pauline Leonard, Long & Foster Real Estate)
Nestled within the Historic Glencarlyn Neighborhood, surrounded by parkland, this Late Victorian home was once the community’s educational epicenter. In 1892, The Village Improvement Association (now the Glencarlyn Civic Association) approached the Alexandria County School Board requesting a grade school for the hamlet. During this time, the lack of childhood education had become an issue for the community, with many neighborhood children never receiving proper schooling. The School Board proved unresponsive, so families banded together to pay Mrs. William King to teach out of her home — 5501 3rd St. South. The schoolhouse grew quickly with an estimated fifteen children, ages six to twelve, attending Mrs. King’s class. By 1894, the School Board was persuaded to finally pay a teacher’s wage ($25 a month) if they furnished a new schoolroom, motivating the village school to move out of Mrs. King’s home. Though a short-lived location, 3rd Street was the catalyst for Glencarlyn’s public education.
(Photo Courtesy of The Glencarlyn Civic Association)
This upcoming weekend, this sliver of hyperlocal history will be on the market. Presented by Pauline Leonard, Long & Foster Real Estate, the four-bed/three-bath estate is listed for $1,140,000. Keeping with the home’s historic integrity, the current owners have kept many of the traditional elements.
Immediately, visitors will notice the front porch that boasts intricate columns & lattice work. Before entering, don’t forget to look up to admire the home’s facade, featuring wood shingle detailing. On the main level– hardwood floors matched with cathedral ceilings lined with stately crown molding. Situated amongst multiple county green-spaces, the kitchen overlooks nothing but mature woodland. While walking up to the second floor, take notice of the spectacular stairway bannister. The finished attic includes a bedroom and living area, filled with an abundance of natural light. Along with plenty of storage and a workshop space, the basement still has a section of concrete walls that originally held a well system – a reminder of days gone by!
(View from The Front Porch, Photo Courtesy of Pauline Leonard, Long & Foster Real Estate)
For those biting their nails to see the interior, professional photos are planned to be added later this week. The listing is expected on the market this Saturday, June 13, 2026, make sure to “favorite” to be kept up-to-date on any changes. To schedule a private showing, email me at [email protected].
