6-8Activities for Children9-12K-5Lesson PlansAudience Group Lesson Plan: Freedman’s Village at Arlington Share Tags 6-8Activities for Children9-12K-5Lesson PlansAudience Group 2025-03-21 Freedman’s Village was a federally administered temporary community of formerly enslaved African Americans established on the former Arlington estate in 1863. In 1887, the government decided to close Freedman’s Village and evict the residents. After analyzing documents and summarizing the arguments on both sides of the issue—should Freedman’s Village be closed or remain open?—students choose their own stance and respond to a reflection question. For an extension opportunity, students can write a letter to the secretary of war explaining what they think should be done. Elementary School: 1-3 class periods, 45-120 minutes total Middle School: 1-2 class periods, 60-90 minutes total High School: 1-2 class periods, 60-90 minutes total Read More