Discover the rich history of Martinsville-Henry County, Virginia or research your family genealogy at the Bassett Historical Center. Step back into time on the "Walking Tour of Historic UpTown Martinsville". On your journey you'll visit the Historic Henry County Courthouse undergoing rehabilitation. Upon completion it will be the home of the Martinsville-Henry County Historical Society. History is the building blocks of our community. The town of Fieldale is an example of how our history was built. As you enjoy a self guided "Walking Tour of Historic Fieldale" you'll visit a quaint mill community built in 1919 by Marshall Field and Company. Whose claim to fame was the Marshall Field's Department Store, which is now called Macy's.
Take in an evening of traditional music at the Historic Spencer Penn Centre and don't miss the monthly show at The Rives Theatre in Martinsville Uptown. Traditional mountain music is an integral component of community celebrations and holiday festivities throughout this region. Fiddle bands play at molasses makings and at small-town festivals; singers gather to perform hymns and have dinner on the grounds; and residents of these southern communities gather at venues to enjoy traditional music played by their friends and next-door neighbors. The neighboring communities of Patrick and Henry Counties chose to use the name of Patrick Henry when they were establising their county names. Yes that's right Patrick Henry, a famous fiddler and orator of the American Revolution, whose call for liberty or death resounded across the land had a positive influence on both communities even today. Both continue to carry on the traditional bluegrass and oldtime music at unique jam sessions such as Billy's Flea Market near the little town of Bassett. A jam session and dance called the Jamboree happens there every Thursday evening and Sunday afternoon year-round.
Aside from traditional music you can also observe local artists at work or sign up for a class to craft your own creation at the Southern Virginia Artisan Center Gallery or Studio 107. Visit either location in Martinsville UpTown for unique gifts and one-of-a-kind crafts created by local and regional artists. Visit the Virginia Museum of Natural History, which houses one of the state's most extensive collections of natural and cultural history. Piedmont Arts offers exhibitions of local to international scope, as well as classes and a Performing Arts Series. Visit Theater Works Community Players at the Black Box Theater to enjoy live stage performances showcasing local talent.
