Danville Museum
of Fine Arts and History
of Fine Arts and History
Christmas in Manhattan
An elegant event with dinner, wine, live music, carriage rides in the Old West End, and fantastic auction items. To be held at the Wednesday Club.
Join DMFAH for a presentation by Dr. Evyatar Marienberg, Professor, Department of Religious Studies, UNC Chapel hill and DMFAH board member.
Join DMFAH for children’s holiday fun. Festive refreshments, crafts, games, and a visit from Santa Claus!
Plan 9 From Outer Space!
Maud Gatewood Takeover
The Danville Museum of Fine Arts and History
October 3 – December 2025
The Danville Museum of Fine Arts and History is proud to present Maud Gatewood Takeover, a major exhibition opening October 3, 2025, and running through the end of December. Featuring over 200 works by Maud Gatewood—one of North Carolina’s most acclaimed and sought-after painters—the exhibition offers an unprecedented look at the breadth and depth of her artistic legacy.
A native of Caswell County, Gatewood spent much of her teaching career in Danville and is widely celebrated by art historians, curators, museum directors, and collectors as a defining figure in Southern art.
This expansive exhibit includes works from DMFAH’s own collection, including a rare portfolio of early pieces created during Gatewood’s high school years, when she studied under Carson Davenport at Averett College. In addition, more than 70 works will be on loan from major institutions and Gatewood’s family and friends—many of which have never before been publicly displayed.
Join DMFAH as we host Paranormal and Occult Research Nerds present their findings from their paranormal investigations of the Sutherlin Mansion.
Determined: The 400-Year Struggle for Black Equality
A Traveling Exhibition from the Virginia Museum of History & Culture
Determined: The 400-Year Struggle for Black Equality is a powerful traveling exhibit that traces four centuries of Black history in Virginia through the lives and legacies of individuals who challenged injustice and helped shape the meaning of American democracy. Through their stories of resistance, resilience, and leadership, the exhibit offers critical insights into the ongoing struggle for freedom and equality in the United States.
Developed by the Virginia Museum of History & Culture (VMHC), this traveling exhibition is based on the original Determined exhibition, which was on display in Richmond from June 22, 2019, to March 29, 2020. It was created to mark the 400th anniversary of the arrival of the first enslaved Africans in British North America and to honor the enduring impact of Black Americans in the face of slavery, segregation, and white supremacy.
Art on the Lawn is one of the best-loved and long-standing outdoor festivals held in Danville. This juried art show held annualy by the Danville Museum of Fine Arts and History is in its xx year, it offers cash prizes to artists. Art on the Lawn is known for the high quality of the artwork presented, this community event gives local artists a way to showcase their work and provides an opportunity for patrons to engage directly with local artists. The funds generated from the event support DMFAH’s year-round exhibitions and educational programming. This in-person event is a perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the local art scene, purchase some great art, and celebrate local arts through music and food. This event is free and open to the public.
Join DMFAH for this traveling exhibit commemorating the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. Give Me Liberty highlights Virginia’s leading role in the American Revolution, and explores the continental and global forces as well as the actions of both iconic and ordinary people that brought about a model of democratic government that changed the world.
Give Me Liberty: Virginia & The Forging of a Nation is the signature exhibition of Virginia’s 250th Commission. This exhibition is curated in partnership with the Virginia Museum of History and Culture and the Jamestown-Yorktown Foundation (JYF) and presented by VA250, Virginia’s semiquincentennial planning commission.
Image: Peter F. Rothermel (1812-1895). Oil painting Patrick Henry Before the Virginia House of Burgesses, 1851 by Peter F. Rothermel (1812-1895). The painting depicts Patrick Henry’s “If this be treason, make the most of it!” speech against the Stamp Act of 1765. (Collection of the Patrick Henry Memorial Foundation)
Join DMFAH for a program that explores the lived experiences of enslaved individuals through the lens of housing in Pittsylvania County and highlights the ongoing efforts of descendant communities to preserve and honor their heritage. Dr. Dennis Sanford will present research from the Virginia Slave Housing Project, including specific case studies in Pittsylvania County. Following this, Karice Luck-Brimmer will share the work of the Descendants of Enslaved Communities at the University of Virginia, offering insights into descendant-led research, engagement, and community-building.
Program Schedule
6:00 – 7:15 PM | Presentation by Douglas W. Sanford, PhD, Virginia Slave Housing, Inc., Professor (Retired), University of Mary Washington, Historic Preservation Department Topic: Enslaved Housing in Pittsylvania County
Dr. Sanford will share findings from the Virginia Slave Housing Project, with a focus on properties such as Oak Hill, Hush Arbor, Sharswood, and Windsor. His presentation will also examine slavery in the county through census records.
7:15 – 8:00 PM | Presentation by Karice Luck-Brimmer, Community Initiatives Program Associate for Virginia Humanities; Director, Our History Matters Topic: Researching Descendant Communities.
Ms. Luck-Brimmer will discuss the mission and work of the Descendants of Enslaved Communities at UVA, including how to establish similar initiatives, conduct research, and organize events that honor ancestral legacies.
8:00 – 8:30 PM | Audience Q&A: An opportunity for attendees to ask questions and engage with the speakers.
DMFAH will provide bus transportation from Danville to Sharswood Manor in Pittsylvania County on June 15th, 2025, for Sharswood’s Annual Juneteenth Celebration, commemorating the end of slavery in the United States. Juneteenth at Sharswood is an opportunity to have fun and learn about history. House Tours, Live Music, Food Trucks, Vendors, and Arts and Crafts Vendors will be available. Visitors can meet the Miller Family, featured on 60 Minutes, who purchased Sharswood in 2020 and later discovered through genealogical research that they were descendants of enslaved people from Sharswood.
Tickets must be purchased in advance on Eventbrite or by calling 434-793-5644.
Agenda
11:00 a.m. Meet at the Danville Museum of Fine Arts and History
11:30 a.m. Bus Departs for Sharswood
12:30 p.m. Bus Arrives at Sharswood
4:00 p.m. Bus Departs Sharswood
5:00 p.m. Bus Returns to Danville
Bus: W and W Limo Motorcoach is air-conditioned, and a bathroom is available.
Parking: The bus will be parked on McGruder’s Alley behind the museum. Attendee parking is available in the parking lots behind the museum or along the street.
Food: Lunch can be purchased at the event at one of the multiple food trucks that will be available. Free drinks and snacks will be available on the bus. For more information, please contact the Danville Museum of Fine Arts and History at 434-793-5644.
Join Us for the Second Danville Public Schools Student Art Exhibit!
The Danville Museum of Fine Arts and History is proud to host the second Danville Public Schools Student Art Exhibit! This special showcase features paintings, drawings, and sculptures created by talented 5th–12th grade students from Danville Public Schools.
Join us for the opening reception on Thursday, April 24th, at 5:30 PM, featuring live performances by DPS dance, music, and theater groups.
Don’t miss this unforgettable opportunity to celebrate the artistic achievements of our local students!
The Danville Museum of Fine Art and History & J.W. Squires Co. will present a middle and high school Solo Festival on Friday, May 9, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. This event will feature middle and high school students from the Dan River Region including students from the City of Danville, Pittsylvania and Caswell Counties. Students will be competing for cash prizes in the categories of instrumental and vocal music.
Admission to the contest is $10 for adults and $5 for students.
Stop by and support our talented youth!
The Garden Club of Virginia operates as a non-profit organization comprised of 48 member clubs and 3,400 volunteers. Proceeds from its signature fundraiser, Historic Garden Week, fund the restoration and preservation of Virginia’s historic public gardens and provide graduate level research fellowships.
Special guests Doves and Dragons! A local husband-and-wife harp and harpsichord duo.
Event website: Historic Garden Week – Garden Club of Virginia
Tickets: Tickets – Garden Club of Virginia
Join Us on the front porch of the Sutherlin Mansion for The New North Carolina Ramblers
The NEW NORTH CAROLINA RAMBLERS will be playing from 1-2 at the Danville Museum of Fine Arts and History as a prelude to the Old West Porchfest. The Old West Porchfest is a first-time event to be held from 2 to 6 in the Old West End Historic District.
The Old West Porchfest will feature live bands, including Vintage Silk, Matt Crowder, Mama Bri Bri & The Stranger, Fescue band, Gabriel Van, Lori Kane, No Deal, and more to be announced! Food trucks. Craft beer provided by 2 Witches Winery & Brewing Co. Artists organized by Five Forks Creators Guild.
The event is free and open to the public. No registration is required. Regular museum tickets are required to visit museum exhibits.
Scottish Festival
In conjunction with the Virginia-Carolina Scottish Society and the Ruby B. Archie Public Library, join us for the Scottish Celebration on April 5th.
Listen to traditional Scottish music played on the bagpipes, enjoy traditional Scottish dancing, and try delicious Scottish food. Don’t forget to wear your kilt!
The event is free and open to the public. No registration is required. Regular museum tickets are required to visit museum exhibits.
Opera on James Adult’s Opera
Note: Children’s Opera is Sold Out.
Join the Danville Museum of Fine Arts and History for a night of breathtaking opera performances by Opera on the James, an OPERA AMERICA Level Four Professional Company. Get ready to be mesmerized by talented opera singers as they perform a mixture of operatic masterpieces, Broadway Hits, and songs from the Great American Songbook. Whether you’re a seasoned opera enthusiast or a newbie looking to experience something new, this event is sure to captivate you. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable evening of music and artistry!
Light snacks and beer and wine for sale.
Tickets are $20. Museum members receive a 5% discount. Museum members use the promo code DANMEM for the discount.
Note: Tickets can also be purchased at the museum gift shop.
DMFAH will be hosting Dr. Evyatar Marienberg, Professor of Religious Studies at the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, for an engaging discussion on the profound connections between art, religion, and spiritual practices.
Following the discussion, Dr. Marienberg will guide an exploration of select pieces from our current exhibit, Art as an Act of Devotion, offering unique insights into the sacred significance of these works.
Don’t miss this special opportunity to deepen your appreciation for the transformative power of art in spiritual traditions.
Free. No registration required.
For more information on Dr. Marienberg see link.
In partnership with the Ruby B. Archie Library, join us at the museum for a screening of The Movement, a documentary about the true story of local Black leaders who took to the streets in the summer of 1963 and risked their lives in a coordinated effort to end segregation in Danville. The documentary traces the Civil Rights struggle that led to Bloody Monday—when armed police officers, firefighters and deputized garbage collectors turned high-powered hoses and batons on protestors, which resulted in many injuries and sent shockwaves through the nation, leading Martin Luther King Jr. to visit Danville four times and declare the Danville Police Department as one of the most brutal forces in the south.
A panel discussion with Danville Civil Rights leaders who participated in and witnessed the events will occur after the documentary.
Location: Danville Museum of Fine Arts and History
Registration is required. Call (434) 799-5195.
Museum members and their guests are invited to join us on December 13th, 2024, from 5:30 to 9:00 p.m. for a special 50th Anniversary President’s Reception! We will be celebrating the remarkable individuals who have contributed to the museum over the past five decades. Don’t miss this opportunity to honor their legacy and enjoy an evening of holiday cheer and reflection. Attendees will also be able to enjoy a preview of DMFAH’s new exhibit, “Art as an Act of Devotion.”
If you are not a museum member or need to renew your membership, you can do so at our website, www.danvillemuseum.org, by calling the museum at 434-793-5644, or by emailing us at info@danvillemuseum.org.
Please RSVP by ordering a (free) ticket on Eventbrite (below) or by calling the museum at 434-793-5644.
The Danville Museum of Fine Arts and History will be hosting a Children’s Holiday House for children ages 4-10 years and accompanying adults. There will be crafts to make, stories read by Sue Shelton, toys from the past to view and holiday cookies for refreshments. Come share this festive morning and make a special start to season.
Ages: 4 to 10
Costs: $10 per child and $5 per extra child per family. No cost for adults.
25 spaces available
Register at Eventbrite (below) or Contact Cathy Eggleston at 434-793-5644.
Purchase unique gifts at DMFAH’s gift shop during Museum Store Sunday on December 1st. The gift shop will have special sales going on this day!
Museum Store Sunday is a global advocacy campaign that communicates the value and importance of museum stores directly to the general public. Happening annually on the Sunday of the Thanksgiving holiday weekend, Museum Store Sunday laid claim to the previously vacant day of the weekend which encompasses Black Friday, Shop Small Saturday, and further beyond with Cyber Monday and Giving Tuesday.
This year, Museum Store Sunday happens on December 1, 2024 when over 2,100 museum stores representing all fifty states and the District of Columbia, twenty five countries, and five continents will offer inspired shopping at your favorite museums and cultural institutions. While there is only one Museum Store Sunday every year, consumers are encouraged to “Shop with Purpose” and support museum stores throughout the year.
Join the Danville Museum of Fine Arts and History for a preview and reception of the new photography exhibit DOUBLE EXPOSURE: Photographers Emmet Gowin and Glenn Scarboro.
Emmet Gowin and Glenn Scarboro marked the reopening of the newly renovated Jennings Gallery fifty years ago with its inaugural exhibition, “Two-Man Photography Show.”
We invite you to celebrate their return and honor fifty years of friendship and artistic endeavors with “Double Exposure.”
The exhibit will be open to the public September 14th – November 1st. DMFAH will hold a members-only preview and reception on September 6th from 6-8 p.m. To become a member of the Danville Museum of Fine Arts and History, please call 434-793-5644.
In conjunction with the ongoing exhibit “Double Exposure: Photographers Emmet Gowin and Glenn Scarboro,” photographer Glenn Scarboro will deliver a talk at the museum on November 20th at 6:30 p.m. Scarboro will be discussing his photography and the inspirations that have shaped his work over the years.
Light refreshments will be provided. This program is free and open to the public. No registration is required.
Image Left: Scarboro, Glenn. 1964. “Bus Stop, Danville, VA.”
Join DMFAH as we host Dr. Brian Bates on November 13th for a presentation on the Late Woodland Period in the Middle Staunton River Valley.
For the past 30 years, archaeologist Dr. Brian Bates, has been conducting scientific archaeological investigations along the banks of the Staunton River in Charlotte and Halifax Counties. The emphasis of his work has been on the late-prehistoric period and has been particularly focused on sites that were likely occupied by the Sappony Indians. Through a presentation of the data and artifacts that he has recovered from his investigations, Dr. Bates will share a picture of a dynamic culture that was engaged in long-distance trade relationships across the Southeastern United States. In all of his research in this region, Dr. Bates has benefitted from a great working relationship with the Sappony Indians and he has also partnered in the past with Virginia State Parks.
For much of the past decade Dr. Bates’s investigations have been in partnership with the Ward Burton Wildlife Foundation which has been a strong advocate and supporter of archaeological investigations into the prehistoric past of the region.
This program is free and open to the public. No registration is required.
The Danville Museum of Fine Arts and History will host two performances, one for children and one for adults, on October 18th by Opera on the James, an OPERA AMERICA Level Four Professional Company from Lynchburg, Virginia.
The Children’s Opera, Goldie B. Locks, an operatic version of the story of Goldilocks based on scenes from operas by Mozart and J. Offenbach, starts at 5 p.m. The Adult’s Opera, an evening of vocal splendor from operatic masterpieces and Broadway hits to The Great American Songbook, starts at 7 p.m.
Opera on the James, celebrating its 19th Season, is an OPERA AMERICA Level Four Professional Company in Lynchburg, Virginia. The company was created by a group of city leaders and opera lovers to share the power and beauty of live opera with diverse audiences in Central Virginia and beyond. The Board of Directors of Opera on the James and dedicated volunteers are very active in the work of the company.
Adult’s Opera
Starts at 7 p.m.
Cost: $20 per person
Children’s Opera- Goldie B. Locks
Starts at 5 p.m.
Cost is Free
Length: Approximately 40 minutes. Appropriate for Pre-K through 5th grade
Join Friends of the Old West End for a guided tour of some of the Old West End’s most haunted locations! Step inside some of the district’s spookiest Victorian homes to hear firsthand accounts from homeowners of their otherworldly visitors, stroll through historic Grove Street Cemetery, and enjoy plenty of eerie tales along the way!
Tour groups will meet on the lawn of the Danville Museum of Fine Arts & History. The museum will be offering drinks (alcoholic and non) for purchase starting at 5 pm. Arrive early or stay late after your tour to socialize and share your own ghost stories!
This year we are offering 5 tour times! Tour stop locations will include the Danville Museum, three Main Street Mansions, and Grove Street cemetery. While there will be plenty of time to stop and catch your breath, please come prepared to walk approximately 1 mile, including an uphill area.
Your ticket price includes a guided tour of the locations pictured below, plus a walking tour of the neighborhood. Costumes are also welcome and encouraged!! Just be mindful that large costumes may take up too much space inside the homes.
Tours start at the Danville Museum of Fine Arts and History
TOUR START TIME OPTIONS: 6:00, 6:30, 7:00, 7:30, 8:00
All tours last approximately 100 minutes. Please arrive at least 10 minutes before your intended tour time.
TICKET PRICES: $20 + taxes & fees if purchased online. $25 if purchased the day-of at the check-in table. Tickets may be purchased at the gate if tours are not sold out prior.
Join educators from the Virginia Museum of History & Culture, Virginia Humanities, and the Danville Museum of Fine Arts and History to engage with historical thinking skills through the project-based learning program Virginia History Day and the education resources of all three institutions.
This free, in-person workshop will be held on Saturday, October 12 from 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM at the Danville Museum of Fine Arts and History, 975 Main St, Danville, VA 24541.
Resources for grades 4-12 will be the focus of this event, but educators from all grade levels are encouraged to attend. All Virginia social studies educators, including from homeschools and private schools, are encouraged to attend.
Space is limited to the first 20 registrants, so register today! Participation in the workshop includes:
– Coffee and light breakfast
– $75 stipend
– Certificate of participation for CEU points
This workshop is sponsored in part by National Endowment for the Humanities and Virginia Humanities. Sign up Here
Join Virginia Humanities’ Community Initiatives at the Danville Museum of Fine Arts and History for “Finding Your Ancestral Roots,” a community genealogy workshop and presentation hosted by Program Associate Karice Luck-Brimmer.
We’re excited to continue our “Finding Your Roots” series as we explore our ancestral roots in the Dan River region. Local and regional historical and genealogical societies, libraries, and museums will come together and share a multitude of resources that will help you discover your family’s history and genealogy.
During this day of informative mini-presentations, we will raffle off 20 AncestryDNA kits and genealogy consultations! Plus, a food truck will be on site. This event is free and open to the public, but registration is recommended.
All who enjoy the freedoms of citizenship are invited to experience the spark that lit the fires for revolution and independence as Patrick Henry’s fifth Great Grandson, Patrick Henry Jolly reenacts his ancestor’s famous speech to “Give Me Liberty, or Give Me Death.”
A special invitation is extended to parents, teachers, and lovers of American history to bring children and students to witness the speech along with a flag presentation and musket salute by the Dan River Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution color guard.
Join the Danville Museum of Fine Arts and History as we host Fourth Fridays on the Veranda this summer for drinks, food, art, music, and community vibes. The Danville Museum of Fine Arts and History, located within Danville’s Old West End, is a hub for art, history, and culture. Every fourth Friday starting in June, the museum’s veranda will transform into a hub of creativity and connection, with specially curated drinks and delicious bites.
Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a history enthusiast, or just looking for a place to connect with others and have a good time, Fourth Fridays on the Veranda is perfect for all. Cash Bar and Food available.
Open to the Public, Tickets not Required.
Upcoming Fourth Fridays on the Veranda include:
June 28, 2024, 5:30- 8:00 p.m.
July 26, 2024, 5:30- 8:00 p.m.
August 23, 2024, 5:30- 8:00 p.m.
Join us at 975 Main Street, Danville, VA on September 14th for Art on the Lawn- a day filled with art, history, and fun. This year is also the Danville Museum of Fine Art and History’s 50th anniversary. To celebrate the museum’s anniversary, we will have a special exhibit that looks back at the museum’s 50 years of history and looks forward to the next 50 years.
Art on the Lawn is rated as one of the best-loved and long-standing outdoor festivals in Danville. This in- person event is a perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the local art scene, purchase some great art, and commemorate a special milestone with us through music and food. Food trucks and beer and wine will be available. Musical guest Mama Bri Bri and the Stranger.
We hope to make this year’s Art on the Lawn/50th Anniversary Event the best, so mark your calendars. This event is free and open to the public. Artists interested in having a booth at Art on the Lawn please call 434-793-5644 or click the Artist Entry Form button below.
Join Virginia Folklife in Danville for a special day exploring storytelling and the African roots of musical traditions!
For the past year, the artists featured at this event have worked together in Virginia Folklife Apprenticeship teams to learn and teach the cultural traditions of community storytelling, gourd instrument building, and Puerto Rican plena and requinto hand drumming.
Danville’s own Fred Motley and Karen Williamson of Caswell County will share stories they have collected—both on screen in a short film and to the sounds of local musicians. Dena Jennings of Nason will offer two workshops about the history and techniques behind the making of gourd instruments—the precedent to today’s banjo, which is often separated from its African origin story. Maurice Sanabria of Richmond will also be offering workshops on hand drumming traditions of Puerto Rican plena music.
Drop in or stay for the whole event. This group of local and visiting artists will help you discover the roots of modern Virginia traditions. Click Here to register.
On Saturday, September 21 (11am-2pm), return to the Danville Museum of Fine Arts & History for Part 2: “Finding Your Ancestral Roots,” a community genealogy workshop and presentation hosted by Danville-based public historian and genealogist Karice Luck-Brimmer, Virginia Humanities Community Initiatives program associate. (See below- More details will be announced soon!)
This event is free and open to the public; registration is recommended. Light refreshments will be provided. For more information, see Virginia Humanities.
Come join us at the Danville Museum for our annual Attic Sale in August where you can find unique treasures and vintage items! Danville looks forward to this very popular event featuring a huge number of items including home decor, furniture, albums, kitchenware, books, paintings, frames, one-of-a-kind items and so much more.
The Annual Attic Sale fundraiser will be open to the public, beginning Saturday, August 3rd at 9 a.m.
A special, members-only “Preview & Sale Reception,” will be held Friday, August 2nd from 5-7 p.m. at the museum.
We will continue to accept donated items May-July during Museum hours (Tuesdays-Fridays, 10-5, Saturdays 12-5, Sundays, 2-5). No clothing or electronics please.
DMFAH will host Business After Hours with the Danville, Pittsylvania County Chamber of Commerce on June 20th. Business After Hours are designed to provide a networking opportunity for chamber members to make new business contacts in a relaxed social setting. There is no cost for Chamber members – It’s included in your membership.
In partnership with the Danville-Pittsylvania County Chamber of Commerce, the Danville Museum of Fine Arts and History will be hosting Business After Hours on June 20th, from 5:30-7:00 p.m. at the museum, located at 975 Main Street, Danville. Refreshments provided by Crema and Vine and Culture.
The museum will be sharing information about plans for September in honor of its 50th Anniversary, including a special photography exhibit to be held on September 6th, and Art on the Lawn and a Celebration Party to be held on September 14th. The museum will also be discussing refinements to the organization’s vision for the future, which reflects its commitment to all local audiences and visitors, and how the museum plans to expand its role to be the cultural heart of Danville.
Join the Danville Museum of Fine Arts and History at the Danville Community Market on Saturday, June 8, 2024, for an island-themed fundraiser to support the museum’s ongoing programs and events. Indulge in tasty island-themed food, delicious margaritas, and special rum drinks, while you immerse yourself in a tropical paradise right in the heart of Danville. Music by DJ Larry Stamps and food provided by Culture. Don’t miss out on this exciting event that brings together the best of both worlds – museums and Margaritaville!
Tickets are $45 per person and $50 at the door. Museum members get 5% off.
You’ll have a chance to bid on a 3-night stay in a waterfront condo in Key West, an exclusive Holiday Dinner in the museum’s cupola, or one of many extravagant gift baskets.
Join DMFAH on May 24th from 5 – 7 p.m. as we showcase amazing artwork from Danville Public School students, music by the DPS orchestra, and dance and theater performances. From paintings to sculptures, there will be a wide variety of art on display. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to appreciate and celebrate the artistic skills of our community.
The exhibit opening and reception will be held May 24, 2024, from 5-7 p.m. The exhibit will continue until June 5th.
To celebrate Women’s History Month, the Danville Museum of Fine Arts and History is having a special exhibition on women from the Danville⎼Pittsylvania County area whose accomplishments, dedication, dignity, and talent deeply enriched, and helped grow the region. Some of the women highlighted in the exhibit are well known, but others, and their contributions, are not. DMFAH will also be hosting two evening presentations on women featured in the exhibit. It is anticipated that the exhibit will expand into an annual display to highlight other women, and their contributions, each March.
DMFAH will be hosting a presentation on Lady Astor who is one of the women featured in the Guides: Women from Danville – Pittsylvania County Area Exhibit to celebrate Women’s History Month. Joyce Wilburn will give a presentation on Nancy Langhorne “Lady: Astor who was born in Danville, VA. She was the first woman to sit on the British Parliament. This presentation will be held again on Sunday, May 5th, Lady Astor Day, from 3-4:30 p.m.
Lady Astor Presentation and Museum Mingle
Sunday, May 5, 2024
3 p.m. – 5 p.m.
To recognize her international achievements, an informative and entertaining 20-minute presentation by Joyce Wilburn will tell how Nancy Langhorne Astor, born in Danville, became a Member of the British Parliament (MP). The 3:00 p.m. program is free and open to the public, but registration is recommended. Register at Eventbrite.
To recognize her international achievements, an informative and entertaining 20-minute presentation by Joyce Wilburn will tell how Nancy Langhorne Astor, born in Danville, became a Member of the British Parliament (MP). The 3:00 p.m. program is free and open to the public.
The Danville Museum of Fine Arts & History will also have a Museum Mingle with cash-bar refreshments after the presentation until 5 p.m. Lady Astor martinis as well as beer and wine will be available. Visitors can attend either or both events.
An exhibit on women from the Danville-Pittsylvania County area whose accomplishments enriched and helped shape the region is currently on display at the DMFAH, 975 Main Street, until Sunday, May 12. For more info, visit www.danvillemuseum.org or call 434.793.5644.
Sharswood Plantation, also known as Sharswood Manor Estate, is a historic plantation house in Gretna, Virginia. Prior to the American Civil War, Sharswood operated as a 2,000-acre tobacco plantation under the ownership of Charles Edwin Miller and Nathaniel Crenshaw Miller. The Carpenter Gothic mansion was designed by New York architect Alexander Jackson Davis.
In 2020, the estate was purchased by Frederick Miller. Frederick Miller is the great-great-grandson of Violet and David Miller, who were both enslaved at Sharswood. Sarah Miller, was born at Sharswood and was recorded as a member of the household in the Slave Birth Index. Miller was unaware of his ancestral connection to Sharswood at the time of his purchase. Miller founded the Sharswood Foundation, a non-profit organization that supports the upkeep and historical preservation of the plantation. In June 2022, the plantation hosted a large Juneteenth celebration with over 1,000 people in attendance. A second Juneteenth celebration was held on June 18, 2023.
Join the Danville Museum of Fine Arts and History for a screening of The Movement, a documentary about the true story of local Black leaders who took to the streets in the summer of 1963 and risked their lives in a coordinated effort to end segregation in Danville. The documentary traces the Civil Rights struggle that led to Bloody Monday—when armed police officers, firefighters and deputized garbage collectors turned high-powered hoses and batons on protestors, which resulted in many injuries and sent shockwaves through the nation, leading Martin Luther King Jr. to visit Danville four times and declare the Danville Police Department as one of the most brutal forces in the south.
A panel discussion with Danville Civil Rights leaders who participated in and witnessed the events, moderated by Karice Luck-Brimmer, Community Initiatives Program Associate at Virginia Humanities, will occur after the documentary.
DMFAH will also be hosting two evening presentations on women featured in the exhibit. This presentation will focus on Rachel Donelson Jackson who was the wife of President Andrew Jackson and Bettie Thompson who was a member of the James Street Holiness Church.
