Ball-Sellers House

The Ball-Sellers House is a colonial-era building in Glencarlyn and one of Arlington County's oldest structures. It features hand-cut logs, wide wooden planks, and traditional mud construction techniques typical of early American homes.

Built in 1760 by John Ball following a land grant from Lord Fairfax, it stands as Arlington County's oldest surviving building. The structure reflects construction practices and settlement patterns of early colonial farmers in the region.

The house reveals how ordinary farmers lived in the 1700s through its original materials and layout designed around daily farm work. Visitors can observe how living spaces, work areas, and storage were tightly organized within one structure.

The building is easily accessible on foot and clearly marked in the Glencarlyn neighborhood. Wear sturdy shoes since the floors and pathways are uneven and interior spaces are tight and low-ceilinged.

The roof is covered with one of the few remaining original oak shingle coverings in the nation, revealing the craftsmanship early builders invested. This roof style represents construction methods that have nearly vanished from modern building practice.

Location: Virginia

Location: Arlington County

Inception: 1760

GPS coordinates: 38.86360,-77.12530

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:10