Danville Historical Society (DHS) began during a period when appreciation for historic architecture often suffered in favor of urban “renewal,” sprawl, and decentralization. City centers were abandoned for suburban neighborhoods, shopping strips, and enclosed malls. Concerned with the loss of so many beautiful and unique properties, Mary Cahill gathered together concerned locals on February 24, 1971 to form DHS.
The Society’s original statement of purpose highlighted its interest in architectural preservation as well as collecting material on Danville’s history.
The purpose of the Society is to be a prime force in the city of Danville for the preservation of artifacts and other significant materials pertaining to the history of Danville throughout time. The Society will also endeavor to educate the people of Danville as to the significance of these items, to promote their preservation and to inspire their rehabilitation for future generations.
The early years of DHS were devoted primarily to the preservation of historic structures in the city, including being the main force behind the creation of Danville’s first historic district, now known as The Old West End. DHS also created a revolving fund to purchase and renovate several homes that later were sold to owner-occupants. Additionally, the Society helped underwrite three historical markers and several publications, as well as original artwork. It purchased Victorian style benches and had them placed along Millionaires Row to increase the street’s visual appeal and comfort.
Around 2014, DHS shifted its focus to collecting materials related to Danville and area history with the aim of becoming a resource for researchers and residents alike. It had already taken in a sizable number of items and those efforts have only increased over the years. In addition to an estimated quarter-of-a-million individual items owned by DHS, the Society holds in repository the collections of the former National Tobacco and Textile Museum and the Schoolfield Museum and Cultural Center.
The wealth of material under the care of Danville Historical Society is unmatched by any other entity in the area. It is the desire of DHS to be able to share this rich history as fully as possible, with an eye to someday opening a fully public space for research, exhibition, and learning.
The Danville Historical Society protects, preserves, and promotes our history to inspire curiosity, learning, and inclusivity.
Kim Frith spent her formative years living in a circa 1854 home in Chatham, roaming the family cattle farm where she searched out Native American artifacts and interesting rocks as a child. After graduating from Chatham High School, Kim attended the University of Virginia, earning a degree in Archeology.
She settled in Albemarle County and raised her family there, working as office manager for a family business and in various executive support roles. In 2023, Kim moved to Danville to work for Caesars Entertainment. She loves living in Danville during this period of renewal. In her free time, Kim enjoys music, genealogical research, renovation projects and dabbles in furniture refinishing. She has two daughters, Anna Paige and Ginger, and reluctantly serves as the caretaker of Ginger’s grumpy cat, Skipper.
Lee Smallwood is deputy public defender in the Danville, Virginia office. He is a loving father, grandfather, and husband. At Danville Historical Society, he serves as recording secretary. Lee is also a collector of fountain pens!
Arianna Ramberg is a dynamic small business owner and an active member of the Danville Pittsylvania Chamber of Commerce, where she serves as Head Ambassador. With a passion for community engagement, she works tirelessly to support local businesses and initiatives that enhance the quality of life in Danville.
Arianna is committed to fostering connections among residents and promoting the unique character of the region. As a member of the Danville Historical Society’s Board of Directors, she brings a fresh perspective and a strong dedication to community development and heritage preservation.
After a nearly 20-year career as an International Radio Broadcaster at the Voice of America, Sarah moved to Danville in 2005. She and her husband Dan discovered Danville because of their shared love for Victorian architecture, purchasing and renovating a historic home on Main Street.
She gravitated to the Danville Historical Society, serving on its board from 2010 to 2016 – four of those years as president – and then an additional two years volunteering on committees. After a four-year hiatus, Sarah rejoined the board in 2022 and served as president until September 2025.
Everything Old is New Again
The holiday season quickly approaches, and the Danville Historical Society (DHS) will present its 52nd Holiday Tour on Saturday, December 13 from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.