The Native Plants Exhibit now located in front of the Museum is provided by the Master Gardeners Club of Halifax.

It’s not your usual art exhibition, but it’s definitely fascinating, entertaining and features hundreds of names and faces and dozens of intriguing items sure to be of interest to viewers.

The South Boston/Halifax County Museum of Fine Arts and History invites the community to stop by the museum and check out its newest exhibit that pulls back the curtain on nine major civic and fraternal organizations that gathered to fellowship over the past century in and around Halifax County.

Some may seem kind of strange like the Order of The Eagles and Order of the Owls who met in their respective nests, while another one remains clouded in mystery – Freemasonry.

And several of the civic organizations continue to have a very active presence in the community today including the Ruritans and Rotarians.

Some of the items on display for the public to enjoy are fraternal organization ceremonial swords, embroidered vintage dark red felt fez ACCA hats complete with tassels, a Shriner figurine that belonged to Gov. William Tuck, a Rotary vest adorned with its owner’s club pins, Ruritan t-shirts, caps, clocks, club scrapbooks featuring newspaper stories and photos, as well as many other antique treasures, some of which have been safely tucked away for years in the museum’s warehouse “black hole”.

This neatly organized exhibit featuring the Woodmen of the World along with four civic organizations – Rotarians, Ruritans, Jaycees and Lions — and four fraternal organizations – Order of Eagles, Order of Owls, Shriners and Freemasons, the world’s oldest largest fraternal organization — will be on display at the local museum through the end of August.

According to Museum Director Pam Smith and Curator Matt Abbott, it’s located in the museum’s new Four-Square Gallery and is sure to enthrall viewers with some of its enigmatic symbols and rich imagery that envelops some of the fraternal societies in an intriguing shroud of mystery. Also some of the other club and organization memorabilia will make some senior visitors remember “way back when.”

“Having people in the community be willing to come together and provide all these items to help us complete this exhibit for everyone to enjoy has been such a rewarding and learning experience,” said Abbott.

“It truly has been a joint effort between our board of directors and the general public to bring this particular exhibit to fruition,” added Smith.

Both agreed “the community will love it because it’s something that can’t be found anywhere else.”

Each of the numerous items on display offers visitors a glimpse into what once went on within the community and more of which continues as county residents promote goodwill, community service and fellowship within their organizations.

At the local museum, visitors will have an opportunity to learn more about the history of each of these individual groups: how they were organized, the various levels and degrees of their membership and how their lodges and clubs are set up.

While the latest Four-Square Gallery exhibit delves into the richness and certain exclusivity of some of the fraternal culture, it also depicts how many of these community clubs and organizations have broadened their memberships in recent years by embracing diversity and including women who once were excluded.

So mark those calendars and make a point to visit in coming days and weeks to see what’s new at the local museum. It’s open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday and is located at 1540 Wilborn Avenue in South Boston.

For additional information, contact the museum at 434-572-9200 or email info@sbhcmuseum.com.

Special shoutout to Longwood University  archeology students who toured the Museum with a special emphasis  on our Abbeville collection on Wednesday, May 21, 2025.

On Friday, May 9, Sinai Elementary second graders in the classes of Mrs. Bowes, Ms. Snead and Mrs. Wallace came to the museum for a tour and had fun finding the museum’s May flowers.

On Friday, May 2, a group of 35 consumers and staff from the Negril Day Support Program in Danville visited the museum for National Space Day.

Come visit the museum and bring your camera and the kids to find our Easter eggs. While you are here, take Easter pictures of your child or children using our backdrop.

Plan on attending Southside Virginia best Civil War and Military Collectors Show!

This show is a fund raiser to benefit the Museum.

The South Boston – Halifax County Museum of Fine Arts and History will close on Saturday, December 21, 2024 at 4 p.m. for the Christmas holiday and will reopen on Friday, December 27, 2024 at 10 a.m.

Merry Christmas to all!

Sam the Snowman is back at the museum, and some of his friends have come with him. Come by and visit the museum and see  how many of Sam and his friends you can find.

The museum will have modified hours for Thanksgiving week. We will be open Tuesday and Wednesday from 10:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. and will be closed Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

Happy Thanksgiving to all!

If you’re the type of traveler who loves getting to know a region’s people and culture, then look no further than South Boston-Halifax County Museum of Fine Arts and History located at 1540 Wilborn Avenue in South Boston.

Or you can live right here in Halifax County and come visit this amazing museum, described by many as one of the best kept secrets around.

In addition to the world-famous Crossing of the Dan exhibit that greets visitors as they walk into the historic museum, other numerous thought-provoking permanent and temporary exhibits cover a wide-range of topics on southern cultural identity that will leave a lasting impression.

In one morning or afternoon, visitors can view paintings, portraits, historic furniture, unique arts, southern heritage and culture all under one roof.

The museum also regularly hosts community events, lectures and other educational programming.

 So What’s New At The Museum

Now on display is the recently completed Four-Square Gallery, the newest exhibit offering visitors a comprehensive look at Halifax County and surrounding areas.

A new fun and interactive map of Halifax County and surrounding counties has replaced the older outdated map in one of the four squares located near the back of the museum. This section of the Four-Square Gallery will be a permanent display.

Three other spaces complete the exhibit featuring temporary displays that can be rotated out with newer ones at any given time.

 Four-Square Gallery

Currently in the three rotating spaces of the Four-Square Gallery are the following:

1 – An election section detailing the history of presidential elections that spells out exactly how a presidential election works in the United States.

2 – A section highlighting the history of the White House explaining such things as how it came to be known as the White House and haunting ghost stories and tales associated with unexplained White House phenomena.

3 – A section highlighting the history of the Governor’s Mansion and Governor’s Palace in Virginia and ghost stories and spooky tales of who may be dwelling in other historic buildings in the state.

The newly renovated Four-Square Gallery is the brainchild of Curator Matt Abbott and Director Pam Smith who saw a need to update the section where the former interactive county map was once located.

“We wanted to bring the map exhibit into the 21^st century,” said Abbott, who explained the “X” shape exhibit was created to maximize space in “a tight environment” with four exhibits now located where one used to be.

The museum’s newest interactive exhibit is designed to be enjoyed by kids and kids-at-heart, aged 2 through 99.

United States Presidential Portrait Gallery

Located just outside the Four-Square Gallery is the recently updated United States Presidential Portrait Gallery featuring portraits of the first through 46^th President, with the soon to be 47^th President added to the display following his inauguration in January.

As tradition has it, people in the community have an opportunity to donate presidential portraits should they so desire, and anyone interested in donating the portrait of America’s 47^th President is urged to contact Curator Abbott at the museum.

All of the latest updates and renovations bring refreshing and appealing colors to the museum thanks to the efforts of Danny Clay Construction, who Abbott credits with doing a “fantastic job” of building and painting the walls in the Four-Square Gallery and Presidential Portrait Gallery.

Other temporary exhibits currently on display include the following: 

The South Gallery

This exhibit immerses visitors in a rich cultural overview of some of the most beautiful fine arts Halifax County has to offer.

The artwork contained in the South Gallery is exclusively produced by many late artists from Halifax County. During their lifetimes, these featured artists dedicated countless hours as museum volunteers and graciously donated the pieces now on display.

Some of the featured artists and photographers whose works are on display include Lillian Amelia Ridgeway, Penick Henderson Wagstaff, Eloise Nichols Hedderly, Gary Vernon Crutchfield, Kenneth H. Cook and Gerald Tate Gilliam.

William M. Tuck Exhibit

Another interesting exhibit that has been updated and moved into a larger section of the museum contains a treasure trove of memorabilia and personal artifacts belonging to Halifax County native William “Bill” Tuck who served as the 55^th Governor of the Commonwealth of Virginia.

To honor this local treasure, the museum proudly displays Tuck’s Bible on which he took his inaugural oath, his famous top hat, his horse saddle and much more. In  a replicated version of the governor’s office, visitors now find a wax figure of Gov. Tuck sitting behind his desk amid a collection of newspaper comics caricaturizing Tuck’s vibrant personality making the William M. Tuck Exhibit a must see for political and historical enthusiasts alike.

African American Firsts Exhibit

This exhibit gives visitors a comprehensive look into what it means to be Black in Halifax County, Virginia and the United States. The celebration of African American history continues year-round highlighting a number of local “firsts” in the Black community.

The truth about Black History is that it’s just not a month, it’s a lifetime and lifestyle for African Americans, according to museum officials who have worked to create an exhibit celebrating the accomplishments of the local Black community of the past, entrepreneurs of the present and inventors of the future.

This celebration of African American history illustrates the determination of a
people who refused to give up or give in to the status quo as they worked so hard
to secure a better future for their families here in Halifax County.

Their stories are full of love, struggles and sacrifices that will empower visitors
with determination and inspire today’s generation to never give up on their goals
and dreams.

History of South Boston Exhibit

Have you ever wondered how the town of South Boston got its name? Or ever even thought about how long it has been around and who decided this little spot on the map would be a good place to call home and began building a village that would soon attract other residents and businesses?

This exhibit entitled “South Boston In The 1800s” answers each of these questions and many more in great detail. The informative displays feature numerous archived photos of early houses, businesses, schools, churches and medical facilities in the town and numerous stories and autobiographical sketches about the town’s founding fathers.

In addition, a diorama of the town and railroad along with a replica of the old covered toll bridge offers visitors a glimpse into what furthered the development of South Boston as a village and later a chartered town.

Visitors can learn more about South Boston’s timeless history beginning with the original “South Boston” that was located on the south side of the Dan River and incorporated by an act of the Legislature of Virginia on Dec. 8, 1796.

‘All Things Halifax County’

For years visitors have been able to walk through history of “all things Halifax” as they peruse the numerous rooms of signature exhibits and displays at the local museum. And that continues today.

As visitors complete their tour of the newest and temporary exhibits, a plethora of permanent exhibits also await including The Crossing of the Dan, The Native American Gallery, Military History of Halifax County, Old Time Country Store, Pioneer Medicine Exhibit, Halifax County’s Rail History and Tobacco History of Halifax County.

And while visitors are exploring the museum this fall, they can participate in the latest Scavenger Hunt while learning about this area and have fun while doing it. There’s been a recent turkey invasion at the Museum, so come help find all the turkeys that are hiding from Thanksgiving.

And before leaving, the last stop of the tour has to be a visit to the Museum Gift Shop that offers a modernized point-of-sale system, making checking out quick and easy for patrons and a memorable one for all customers.

The gift store is now stocked with a variety of new products which help to better accentuate the county’s long colorful history and the culture and lifestyle of the South.

There is no shortage of fun, interesting and engaging ways to explore the museum, and admission is free. So in the near future, make a plan to spend an hour or two at the local museum located at 1540 Wilborn Avenue in South Boston. The museum is open Wednesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information, call 434-572-9200.

A total of 110 South Boston Elementary School fifth graders and their teachers recently toured the museum.

Children, family and friends, you’re invited to come explore the museum this fall and participate in our new Scavenger Hunt! Learn about South Boston and Halifax County and have fun while you are doing it. There’s been a turkey invasion at the Museum, so come help us find all the turkeys that are hiding from Thanksgiving.

A total of 70 teachers and five students from Cluster Springs Elementary School toured the museum on Halloween enjoying a lunch on the premises. They also had an opportunity following the tour to meander around  the museum to see things of interest  they may have missed during the tour.

Children, family and friends, you’re invited to come explore the museum this fall and participate in our new Scavenger Hunt! Learn about South Boston and Halifax County and have fun while you are doing it. Come to the Museum and help Snoopy find the missing pumpkins before the Great Pumpkin arrives on Oct. 31^st.

A total of 35 Health & Wellness members and staff from Danville visited the museum for a tour and enjoyed searching for the hidden pumpkins on Thursday, September 19 .

Members of Life Stride 2 from Farmville visited the museum on Wednesday, Sept. 18, enjoying a guided tour of all the exhibits on display. 

WHAT’S IN A NAME?

The South Boston-Halifax County Museum of Fine Arts and History can answer that question … A LOT.

For years visitors have been able to walk through history of “all things Halifax” as they peruse the numerous rooms of signature exhibits and displays at the local museum.

With the grand opening of the new South Gallery Art Exhibit, the museum now immerses visitors even more so in a rich cultural overview of some of the most beautiful fine arts Halifax County has to offer. And all were produced by homegrown talented and diverse county residents.

Come see how this newest exhibit now open in the South Gallery gives new meaning to the “Fine Arts” in the museum’s name.

Remember them…

The artwork contained in the South Gallery is exclusively produced by many late artists from Halifax County. During their lifetimes, these featured artists dedicated countless hours as museum volunteers and graciously donated the pieces now on display.

Come explore and enjoy these works of art designed and created by artists, photographers and craftsmen while remembering their dedication and preservation of Halifax County’s heritage and history.

Some of the featured artists and photographers whose works are on display include Lillian Amelia Ridgeway, Penick Henderson Wagstaff, Eloise Nichols Hedderly, Gary Vernon Crutchfield, Kenneth H. Cook and Gerald Tate Gilliam.

Lillian Amelia Ridgeway

She was born on Sept. 17, 1921 in Halifax County and died August 9, 2021. She was married to Richard Ridgeway. This talented artist missed living to be 100 by one month, but in her 99 years, she was a teacher, artist and a contributor of artwork to this museum. In addition to her numerous paintings now on display, Ridgeway also painted portraits of her husband, Richard, and a self-portrait, both now on display in the South Gallery.

Penick Henderson Wagstaff

He was born on March 16, 1916 in Halifax County and died Feb. 18, 2005. A gifted painter, singer, preacher and veteran of World War II, he exhibited his artwork at the museum on many occasions and later donated one of his paintings that is now on display in the South Gallery.

Eloise Nichols Hedderly

She was born on April 29, 1928 in Halifax County and died Oct. 15, 2019. She was married to Charles J. Hedderly Jr., and they had two children, Charles J. Hedderly III and Suzanne Hedderly. This talented artist was a member of the Tuesday Woman’s Club that was instrumental in helping to establish the South Boston – Halifax County Museum, and she was a faithful volunteer serving on the museum board of directors. Many of her paintings are displayed on one entire wall in the South Gallery.

Gary Vernon Crutchfield

A tireless museum volunteer and talented photographer, Crutchfield was born Sept. 17, 1945 in Mecklenburg County and died May 6, 2014 in South Boston.

Kenneth H. Cook

Known for his vast knowledge of history of South Boston and Halifax County, this gifted photographer who captured history in the making on film was born on March 6, 1945 and died Oct. 26, 1984.

Gerald Tate Gilliam

Born in Halifax County on Oct. 19, 1940, skilled and accomplished photographer Gerry Gilliam captured brilliant photographs now on display in the South Gallery. This family also was responsible for donating many artifacts seen in the museum’s General Store exhibit. Gilliam served many years as a county historian and as chair of the museum’s display committee before passing away on Aug. 2, 2021.

This signature South Gallery exhibition now on display also provides an in-depth historic journey featuring a variety of  furniture and Limoges – Charles Field Haviland China from France belonging to the founder of South Boston, Edwin B. Jeffress.

Also on display are antique portraits of little girl Margaret Rebecca Clarke and young World War I veteran Alexander Bransford Cumby along with chairs handmade by an enslaved man on a Virginia Plantation, a table owned by John Randolph of Roanoke and a matching set of Egyptian Revival furniture that traveled across the country not once, but twice.

These pieces tell unique stories of hardship, travels, and politics, and visitors are invited to come explore all this and more in the newly opened South Gallery at the South Boston-Halifax County Museum of Fine Arts and History located at 1540 Wilborn Avenue in South Boston.

Current temporary hours for the museum are Wednesday – Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

For more information, call 434-572-9200 or email info@sbhcmuseum.org.

The museum welcomed 48 Sinai Elementary second graders and four staff members  for a tour on Friday, May 10. Everyone enjoyed learning more new things about the county they call home.

Visitors from Texas traveled to South Boston Virginia in these old school cars and stopped by to visit the local museum on Friday, April 19.

Thank You For Your Support

The museum’s annual membership drive has begun!

This year has been quite an active one for the South Boston-Halifax County Museum’s community, and it has proved to be extremely busy as we have welcomed many old friends and made quite a few new ones as visitors from far and wide have come through our doors. We are excited about much progress being made this year including the addition of our Curator Matt Abbott, formerly of Greensboro, N.C.

We are so happy to have been the recipient of so much love and support this year, because as a small non-profit organization, we depend greatly on revenue generated by membership dues, donations and the generosity of members, patrons and business partners.

As our friends, we need your help. A financial gift would be so very appreciated.

Please stop by and tour the recently reconfigured “Crossing of the Dan” exhibit and our popular other exhibits and displays.

Also, feel free to visit our newly renovated and stocked Gift Shop where you can purchase unique and interesting items.

Once again, thank you for your support!

Members of the Danville Health and Wellness group visited the museum on Thursday, April 4, 2024. A total of 28 members and four staff enjoyed a guided tour of all the exhibits on display.

Mrs. Patsy Ann Norwood Newman, the great-granddaughter of “Captain” E. B. Jeffress, “The Father of South Boston,” recently visited the museum with other family members to donate many Jeffress family items including portraits, a love seat, a set of china, ledgers and other family documents.  Come by the museum to see some of these items already on display.

Members of the Danville Health and Wellness group visited the museum on Wednesday, March 20, 2024. A total of 29 members and four staff enjoyed a guided tour of all the exhibits.

Ms. Outlaw and the Cluster Springs Head Start Class visited the museum on Thursday, March 14, 2024. A fun time was had by all.

The Easter Bunny has lost his eggs at the Museum. Please come help find them in time for Easter.

In observance of Christmas and New Year’s weekends, the Museum will be closed on Saturday December 23rd and Saturday December 30th.

HELP!!!!!!

The Nutcrackers have invaded the museum. They proudly marched into the front door coming in all different sizes and colors. Now they are scattered throughout the museum, and it is up to museum visitors to come help find them so they can go home for Christmas.

While at the museum, visitors are invited to check out all of the exhibits along with the lovely Victorian Christmas tree and colorful Christmas decorations throughout the many exhibits.

And before visitors leave they’re urged to get a book about “The Nutcracker” in the gift shop and browse the numerous other items for sale that would make perfect Christmas presents for loved ones this holiday season.

Christmas is in the air at the local museum, so take a few minutes out of your busy holiday schedule this December to bring the family to one of the best kept secret treasures in the county. The South Boston-Halifax County Museum is located at 1540 Wilborn Avenue in South Boston and is open Wednesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

For additional information, contact the museum at 434-572-9200 or email info@sbhcmuseum.com.

More than 95 fifth graders from South Boston Elementary School visited the museum on November 28 and 29 to learn about the county they call home. Staff and students said they enjoyed their visit and had a great time while touring the many exhibits.

For additional information, contact the museum at 434-572-9200 or email info@sbhcmuseum.com.

The museum is located at 1540 Wilborn Avenue in South Boston.

These fifth graders from Sinai Elementary School visited the museum on Friday, Nov. 17, to learn more about the county they call home. Staff and students said they enjoyed their visit and had a great time while touring the many exhibits.

For additional information, contact the museum at 434-572-9200 or email info@sbhcmuseum.com.

The museum is located at 1540 Wilborn Avenue in South Boston.

The museum would like to sincerely thank all the sponsors who helped make the November 4th Bottle Show a success.

Antique bottle collectors and others with small collectibles will be able to buy, sell, trade and display antique and vintage bottles, glassware and other collectibles when the South Boston-Halifax County Museum of Fine Arts and History sponsors the Southside Virginia Bottle and Small Collectibles Show and Auction and free appraisal event on Saturday, Nov. 4.

This year’s expanded regional event will be held from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. at the South Boston-Halifax County Museum of Fine Arts and History located at 1540 Wilborn Avenue in South Boston. Featured will be antique and vintage bottles, glassware, crystal, china, porcelain, jugs, crocks and other relics. Also included at this year’s event will be a variety of small collectibles such as stamps, postcards, coins and other items.

This event is a collaborative effort of local bottle collectors among many of the vendors from the Commonwealth of Virginia. The collectors will be exhibiting and trading bottles ranging from the early colonial period until modern day. Many local bottles also will be on display during this museum fundraising event.

New this year, select bottles from the museum collection will be auctioned at a 1 p.m.

Exhibitors will set up from 3 to 7 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 3, and exhibitors and dealers only will be allowed in the museum from 8 to 9 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 4, prior to the event opening to the public at 10 a.m.

Admission will be $5 per person, and children under 3 will be admitted free with parent. All proceeds will benefit the museum.

Currently the museum is seeking exhibitors and vendors to participate in the Bottle and Small Collectibles event. The event is limited to 8-foot tables on a first come, first serve basis. The cost is $30 per table with a maximum of two badges, and vendors and exhibitors are asked to stay the entirety of the show. The museum will furnish the tables for the show.

For more information, interested exhibitors and vendors are urged to call Paul Smith at 572-9200 or 724-986-6416 or send an email to info@sbhcmuseum.org.

Vendors wishing to pay by credit card may call the museum at 572-9200. Checks may be made payable to SBHCM and must be mailed to P.O. Box 383, South Boston, VA 24592 no later than Nov. 2.

These 20 fifth graders in Mrs. Long’s class at Clays Mill Elementary School visited the museum on Thursday, October 26, to learn more about the county they call home. Staff and students said they enjoyed their visit and had a great time while touring the many exhibits.

For additional information, contact the museum at 434-572-9200 or email info@sbhcmuseum.com.

The museum is located at 1540 Wilborn Avenue in South Boston.

A total of 23 fifth graders from Meadville Elementary School visited the museum on Monday, October 2, to learn more about the county they call home. Staff and students said they enjoyed their visit and had a great time while touring the many exhibits.

For additional information, contact the museum at 434-572-9200 or email info@sbhcmuseum.com.

The museum is located at 1540 Wilborn Avenue in South Boston.

Members of the South Boston-Halifax County Museum of Fine Arts and History will hold the 2023 annual membership meeting at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 19, in the museum’s South Gallery.

The public also is welcome to come at 7 p.m. to hear this year’s guest speaker, Ned Strange, as he shares a presentation about his 53-year restoration project of an 18^th century home, along with his crafting of Spice Cabinets, patterned after the 17^th and 18^th century cabinetry of the time.

This museum event is free and open to the public.

Strange is a graduate of Randolph-Macon and VCU and spent 38 years as a vocational counselor and rancher of Black Angus cattle.

He and his wife, Donna, restored a 1779 house in Alton, which they purchased in 1970. Those attending the museum annual membership meeting will see a slide presentation of the various stages of rehabilitation, which led to the home, Cedar Grove, being listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The commonwealth also has named their home a “Virginia Treasure.”

His presentation will show the property and various buildings before they were restored as well as results after the restoration of separate buildings for the kitchen, the bathroom, storage, guest house and numerous others on the property.

In addition to restoring the various buildings, Strange also crafted most of the furniture for the home and guest house from wood he had on the property from various trees, mainly walnut, maple and cherry. The finished products were crafted to include many detailed carvings.

Strange also plans to share an item of interest to him, a Spice Chest made from Pennsylvania Dutch and Kentucky styling. Each chest had numerous drawers and doors, some of which were hidden from the casual view of the chests.

In a recent interview, Strange explained how he visited museums and did a great deal of research to make sure his items were patterned faithfully to the style of the era. He noted that one such chest, described as the finest example of Puritan furniture, was sold at Christie’s Auction House in the 1990s for more than $2.4 million.

As part of his presentation, Strange said he plans to bring with him several items to show those in attendance. Following his presentation, museum members and guests are invited to come and view the items up close and open them up to discover all that was a part of each one.

The public is encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity to learn about more about the rehabilitation and restoration process of Strange’s 18^th century home as well as tour exhibits on display at the museum.

Prior to Strange’s presentation at 7 p.m., the museum will hold a short business meeting at 6:30 p.m. when elections will be held for 2023-2024 officers.

For additional information, contact the museum at 434-572-9200 or email info@sbhcmuseum.com.

The museum is located at 1540 Wilborn Avenue in South Boston.

The museum has a new logo that features the archways located in the main room of the museum.  Each archway leads guests to exhibits that explore the history of South Boston and Halifax County. The archway on the logo focuses on The Crossing Of The Dan exhibit.  The logo also highlights how the tobacco industry had an enormous effect on the economic development of South Boston and Halifax County.

Logo Designed by

Small Town Design LLC

It was bon appetit for 90 museum guests who enjoyed the sights, sounds and tastes of delectable gourmet Italian foods without having to travel around the world during a memorable evening Sunday, Sept. 10, when the South Boston/Halifax County Museum hosted an enchanted “Evening in Italy” at its 1540 Wilborn Avenue location.

Catered by Viny’s Italian Restaurant, the authentic rich and diverse aromatic cuisine reflecting Italy’s regional and cultural diversity was served to a limited number of ticketholders who also were treated to happy background Italian restaurant music performed by Nelly Zamora Jones.

Featured guest speaker Viny Sarnataro highlighted the “Evening in Italy” museum fundraising event with his deep knowledge of Italy’s food, culture, traditions and dress as well as his fondness for the Halifax County community.

This special evening, part of this year’s annual Tablescapes fundraiser, featured a variety of sponsored tables, each representing well-known Italian cities and tourist attractions and all decorated with heavily concentrated Italian themes. A PowerPoint ran throughout the event highlighting information and photos about each of the cities and regions represented by the individual tables.

One special table featured an Italian doll that was presented to South Boston officials in April 2007 by its Italian sister city, Leverano, which is located on the right heel of the country shaped like a boot.

More than $5,000 was raised during this year’s fundraising event that will go to the museum, which relies heavily on financial support from the community.

Evening In Italy sponsors who helped make the fundraiser such a success this year included the following: Viny Sarnataro and Viny’s Italian Restaurant for donating and preparing the food for the event; Ted Bennett; Berry Hill Resort and Conference Center; Brooks Lyon Funeral Home; Computer Bookkeeping & Tax Service, Inc. Danville; William and Bonnie Eberlein; Edward Jones; Scotty Felton, Long & Foster; Food Lion – Centerville; H & M Logging; Halifax County Sheriff Department; Halifax Pharmacy; Harrell Family Fund; Hudson Heritage Farms; Hitachi energy; KeJaeh Enterprises, LLC.; MaMa Bri Bri & The Strangers; J.T. Miller; Morgan Lumber Company, Inc.; Northern Virginia Electric Cooperative; Virgilina Woman’s Club; and Jimmy and Carol Wade.

Ever wanted to enjoy the sights, sounds and delectable gourmet foods of Italy without having to travel around the world?

Now that memorable opportunity awaits ticketholders as the South Boston/Halifax County Museum hosts an “Evening in Italy” at 5 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 10, at its 1540 Wilborn Avenue location.

Enjoy that first taste of the delights of Naples, Florence, Rome, Leverano and other Italian cities during this enchanting event. Also learn about many of the ancient ruins, architecture and artistic masterpieces of Italian culture while indulging in that country’s legendary food and drink.

Catered by Viny’s Italian Restaurant, an authentic rich and diverse aromatic cuisine reflecting Italy’s regional and cultural diversity will be served to a limited number of ticketholders who also will be treated to happy background Italian restaurant music.

Featured guest speaker Viny Sarnataro will highlight the “Evening in Italy” museum fundraising event with his deep knowledge of Italy’s food, culture, traditions and dress.

This special evening, part of this year’s annual Tablescapes fundraiser, will feature a variety of sponsored tables, each representing well-known Italian cities and tourist attractions and all decorated with heavily concentrated Italian themes.

One special table will even feature an Italian doll that was presented to South Boston officials in April 2007 by its Italian sister city, Leverano, which is located on the right heel of the country shaped like a boot.

All proceeds from this year’s fundraising event will go to the museum, which relies heavily on financial support from the community.

A limited number of tickets are being sold for $30 each and must be purchased prior to the event.

According to event organizers, many luncheon fundraisers have been held in the past with various themes such as “seasonal celebrations,” “spring fancies” and “family memories” each one bringing unique designs such as “The Traveling Teapot.”

This year’s “Evening in Italy” theme and format will be a bit different from those fundraisers of previous years. This special Sunday evening affair is being made possible through Sarnataro’s and Viny’s Italian Restaurant’s generous donation that will allow the museum to bring the exquisite tastes and sounds of Italy for ticketholders to enjoy.

Museum fundraising organizers currently are seeking additional sponsors for this one of a kind event.

Anyone donating $200 or more will receive website and Facebook recognition, museum newsletter recognition, their name on the marque at the entrance to the event in addition to two free tickets to the event.

Donors of $100-$200 will receive website and Facebook recognition, museum newsletter recognition, their name on the marque at the entrance to the event and one free ticket to the event.

Donations of $50 to $100 will receive website and Facebook recognition, museum newsletter recognition and their name on the marque at the entrance to the event.

For more information, call the South Boston/Halifax County Museum at 434-572-9200 or email info@sbhcmuseum.org

Spring has sprung at the South Boston/Halifax County Museum, and the public is urged to visit the engaging, captivating and inviting exhibits now on display. Youngsters are invited to come join in on the fun while searching for Easter eggs and a hidden Barrack Obama that awaits discovery. And prizes abound for those successful in their hunt.

Winter scenes have transformed into spring as colorful blooming flowers and bright green trees have replaced the snow covered Village of Scottsburg conjuring up memories of time-honored spring traditions that have characterized Easter celebrations in the village of Scottsburg.

This exhibit continues to “wow” visitors with an interactive experience transporting them back to a simpler time when life centered around family, church and community in the tiny village of Scottsburg.

Visitors will learn more about the histories of Scottsburg as they stroll through the exhibit now decorated for the Easter holiday and spring season, and children will enjoy hunting for the tiny colorful Easter eggs hidden within the display. And those who find a hidden egg will receive a “surprise” reward before leaving the museum.

Make plans to visit the local museum and step into the past while viewing the lighted replicas of Scottsburg Baptist Church dating back to 1779, Bank of Scottsburg constructed in 1927, Louis Wimbish’s Country Store, the Scottsburg Post Office and Roy Reese’s Gulf Station and Country Store.

The visit continues with a step back in time to Scottsburg Methodist Church dating back to 1884, the Scottsburg Normal College constructed in 1893 and W. L. Stigall’s Esso that dates back to 1889.

Leaving the little village of Scottsburg, which incorporated into a town in 1925, museum visitors will get a true taste of country living in the spring as they venture into an outdoor setting complete with pastoral pond and grazing deer, vintage log cabin and tobacco growing in the fields.

As visitors leave the museum’s old timey Scottsburg village, they will have an opportunity to step into spring in Town Square where a wandering Civil War Soldier may greet them with a “how-do”.

Then they may join others for a family gathering complete with a sumptuous meal spread out on the Easter holiday-draped dining room table, with nearby organ at the ready to provide a tune or two.

Before leaving the museum, visitors are invited to visit the nearby South Boston Village and Town exhibit that offers a glimpse into its humble beginnings and history.

Those visitors who may have seen the exhibits earlier this year will want to come again to see what’s new and inviting this spring at their local museum including the latest exhibit that celebrates African American history highlighting a number of local “firsts” in the Black community.

The truth about Black History is that it’s just not a month, it’s a lifetime and lifestyle for African Americans, according to museum officials who have worked to create a yearlong exhibit celebrating the accomplishments of the local Black community of the past, entrepreneurs of the present and inventors of the future.

This celebration of African American history illustrates the determination of a people who refused to give up or give in to the status quo as they worked so hard to secure a better future for their families here in Halifax County.

Also on permanent display at the museum is the Crossing of the Dan exhibit that was once housed at The Prizery, the Native American Gallery, Military History of Halifax County, Old Time Country Store, Pioneer Medicine Exhibit, interactive Map of Halifax County, Halifax County’s Rail History and Tobacco History, just to name a few.

Youngsters are encouraged to search for the hidden Barrack Obama figure that moves around from place to place in the exhibit. Just let a museum representative know when Barrack has been spotted, and they will reward efforts with a prize.

The South Boston/Halifax County Museum of Fine Arts and History is open Wednesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. There is no cost to enter the museum and to enjoy all the displays and exhibits; however, donations are appreciated.

The museum is located at 1540 Wilborn Ave. in South Boston. For more information, call 434-572-9200.

Black History Month may be over, but at the South Boston-Halifax County
Museum of Fine Arts and History, the celebration of African American history
continues in its newest exhibit highlighting a number of local “firsts” in the Black
community.
The truth about Black History is that it’s just not a month, it’s a lifetime and
lifestyle for African Americans, according to museum officials who have worked to
create a yearlong exhibit celebrating the accomplishments of the local Black
community of the past, entrepreneurs of the present and inventors of the future.
This celebration of African American history illustrates the determination of a
people who refused to give up or give in to the status quo as they worked so hard
to secure a better future for their families here in Halifax County.
Their stories are full of love, struggles and sacrifices that will empower visitors
with determination and inspire today’s generation to never give up on their goals
and dreams.
The public is invited to visit this exhibit and learn more about such local African
American firsts as “Top” Harris, the first Black law enforcement officer in Halifax
County who was selected and deputized in the 1930s despite the discriminatory
nature of the police service in that era.
Supplied with a weapon, bullets, badge, uniform and handcuffs, Harris was given
full authority to make arrest of any citizen, including Whites, who broke the law
or exhibited misconduct on the premises he was patrolling.
Harris served at Black high school events and at sizeable Black gatherings
including conventions of the Banister Baptist Association, Sunnyside Baptist
Association and the Staunton River Baptist Association as well as other county
events.
The only catch was he served with a clear understanding that he would receive
no pay for his duties. However, oftentimes the groups he served would “pass the
hat” to raise monies to compensate him.

Following Harris, no other Black law enforcement officials worked in the county
until Charlie Reed Hill, who was hired as a patrolman in South Boston around
1959 or 1960, and he also is included as part of this exhibit.
Harris’ and Hill’s stories are just a few of the numerous stories being told in
“African American History: The First….”
Come check out the exhibit and learn more about the area’s first Black doctor,
dentist, policeman, lawyer, fireman, mayor, hospital board member, judge and
legislator.
Ever wonder about how an African American woman with strong ties to the
county unknowingly could have contributed to numerous important scientific
advances worldwide through use of her cervical cancer cells, the source of the
HeLa cell line? This museum exhibit can answer that question and many more.
Also discover where the first Black church, school and hospital in the area were
located.
As part of the yearlong African American exhibit now on display at the museum,
famous Black firsts in government and the world of sports also are highlighted.
Discover who became the first Black baseball, football, basketball and hockey
players on White national teams, and learn more about the first Black World
Champion boxer, NASCAR driver, PGA golfer and tennis champion.
Also featured as part of the African American history exhibit is 19 th century
furniture maker and Virginia native Thomas Day who proved to be a step ahead of
his time, not only as a true craftsman, but as an intuitive businessman and a man
of faith.
Born in 1812, Day was the son of free Blacks who operated a plantation in
Dinwiddie County and was educated by Quakers. Several pieces of his uniquely
crafted furniture are on display in this exhibit too.
Admission is free, so in the near future, make a plan to spend an hour or two at
the local museum located at 1540 Wilborn Avenue in South Boston. The museum
is open Wednesday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The public is invited to come by the South Boston-Halifax County Museum of Fine Arts and History to be a part of the Crossing of the Dan events on Thursday, February 9, 2023.

(See events listed above)

The museum is located at 1540 Wilborn Avenue in South Boston.

For more information, call 434-572-9200.

Mark your calendars we are doing it again in 2023! All proceeds benefit the South Boston-Halifax County Museum of Fine Arts and History.

The museum is located at 1540 Wilborn Avenue in South Boston.

For more information, call 434-572-9200.

Students from Mecklenburg Tri-County Head Start program recently visited the museum for a tour of all the exhibits and displays.

The group spent some time visiting all of the many museum exhibits including the Crossing of the Dan exhibit along with its Southern Continental Army complement and other favorites such as the Scottsburg exhibit room, Harrell Buggy, war room and the old tobacco barn, just to name a few.

The museum is located at 1540 Wilborn Avenue in South Boston.

For more information, call 434-572-9200.

The YMCA Silver Sneaker Active Adults Group visited the museum on Tuesday, January 17, for  a tour of all the exhibits and displays and to have lunch.

The group spent some time visiting all of the many museum exhibits including the Crossing of the Dan exhibit along with other favorites such as the Harrell Buggy, war room and the old tobacco barn, just to name a few.

At the end of their visit, the Silver Sneakers Adult Group enjoyed lunch at their local museum.

The museum is located at 1540 Wilborn Avenue in South Boston.

For more information, call 434-572-9200.

Young visitors from all across our community have been making their way to the local museum to learn more about what makes this place they call home so special.

Recently, groups of students from South Boston Elementary, Clays Mill Elementary, Meadville Elementary, Cluster Springs Elementary, Sinai Elementary, Sydnor Jennings Elementary and Scottsburg Elementary spent some time visiting all of the many museum exhibits.

They also toured the Crossing of the Dan exhibit along with other favorites such as the Harrell Buggy, war room and the old tobacco barn, just to name a few.

At the end of their visit, the students said they wanted to return very, very soon to see what’s new at their local museum.

The museum is located at 1540 Wilborn Avenue in South Boston.

For more information, call 434-572-9200.

It’s Christmas in the Village of Scottsburg and Town of South Boston at the South Boston/Halifax County Museum, and the public is urged to visit the newest engaging, captivating and inviting exhibits entitled “Holidays in the Village and Town” now on display.

For those who may not be able to visit during the museum’s regular hours of operation, the museum also will be open from 2 to 4 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 18, to provide another viewing opportunity of the museum’s newest aesthetically pleasing miniature lit Scottsburg Village along with the Town of South Boston exhibit that are both now decorated for the Christmas holidays.

A winter season scene with snowy exhibits conjures up memories of by-gone holiday celebrations and time-honored traditions that have characterized Christmases in the village of Scottsburg and town of South Boston.

Now open to the public, the two latest exhibits will “wow” visitors with an interactive experience transporting them back to a simpler time when life centered around family, church and community in the tiny village of Scottsburg and town of South Boston.

Visitors will learn more about the histories of both Scottsburg and South Boston as they stroll through the two separate exhibits now decorated for the Christmas holidays.

Make plans to visit the local museum and step into the past while viewing the lighted replicas of Scottsburg Baptist Church dating back to 1779, Bank of Scottsburg constructed in 1927, Louis Wimbish’s Country Store, the Scottsburg Post Office and Roy Reese’s Gulf Station and Country Store.

The visit continues with a step back in time to Scottsburg Methodist Church dating back to 1884, the Scottsburg Normal College constructed in 1893 and W. L. Stigall’s Esso that dates back to 1889.

Leaving the little village of Scottsburg, which incorporated into a town in 1925, museum visitors will get a true taste of country living in the wintertime as they venture into a snowy outdoor setting complete with pastoral pond and grazing deer, vintage log cabin and tobacco.

As visitors leave the museum’s old timey Scottsburg village, they will have an opportunity to step into a snowy Town Square where a wandering Civil War Soldier and carolers may greet them “how-do” and happy holidays.

Then they may join others for a family gathering complete with sumptuous meal spread out on the holiday-draped dining room table, with nearby organ at the ready to provide a holiday tune or two.

Also in the museum this holiday season, Christmas is being celebrated in the nearby South Boston Village and Town exhibit that tells the story behind the merry holiday’s place on our calendar and why we celebrate as we do.

Coming to life is a wintery Christmas village in South Boston with a beautifully decorated Christmas tree like the ones that gained prominence in front parlors and village squares across the country in the mid-19^th century.

The two festive exhibits will continue to be on display through Christmas and New Year’s holidays with changes having been made to now transform the exhibits into the winter season. Those visitors who may have seen the exhibits earlier this year will want to come again to see what’s new and inviting this winter and Christmas holiday at their local museum.

The South Boston/Halifax County Museum of Fine Arts and History is open Wednesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. There is no cost to enter the museum and to enjoy all the displays and exhibits; however, donations are appreciated.

The museum is located at 1540 Wilborn Avenue in South Boston.

For more information, call 434-572-9200.

Antique bottle collectors and others with small collectibles will be able to buy, sell, trade and display antique and vintage bottles, glassware and other collectibles when the South Boston — Halifax County Museum of Fine Arts and History hosts the Bottle and Small Collectibles Fair on Saturday, Nov. 5.

The fair will be held from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. featuring antique and vintage bottles, glassware, crystal, china, porcelain, jugs, crocks and other relics. And a new addition this year will include a variety of small collectibles such as stamps, postcards, coins and other items.

This Bottle Collectors’ Fair is a collaborative effort of local bottle collectors among many of the vendors from the Commonwealth of Virginia. The collectors will be exhibiting and trading bottles ranging from the early colonial period until modern day. Many local bottles also will be on display during this museum fundraising event.

Exhibitors will set up from 3 to 7 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 4, and exhibitors and dealers only will be allowed in the museum from 8 to 10 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 5, prior to the event opening to the public at 10 a.m.

Admission will be $5 per person, and children under 12 will be admitted free with parent. All proceeds will benefit the museum.

Currently the museum is seeking exhibitors and vendors to participate in the Bottle and Small Collectibles Fair. The event is limited to 14 8-foot tables on a first come, first serve basis. The cost is $30 per table with a maximum of three badges, and vendors and exhibitors are asked to stay the entirety of the show. Vendors also are responsible for their own table during the show.

For more information, interested exhibitors and vendors are urged to call Paul Smith at 572-9200 or 724-986-6416 or send an email to info@sbhcmuseum.org.

Vendors wishing to pay by credit card may call the museum at 572-9200. Checks may be made payable to SBHCM and must be mailed to P.O. Box 383, South Boston, VA 24592 no later than Nov. 2.

For the past 40 years, people have visited the South Boston-Halifax County Museum of Fine Arts and History in South Boston and left with an innate sense of discovery, a flash of joy and happiness and a newfound connection to the place they call home, its people and its past.

It’s that emotional response felt at the local museum that keeps people coming back, and it is all thanks to the vision of the museum’s early founders who persisted and eventually brought this vision to reality on July 11, 1982.

On Sunday, July 17, from 2 to 4 p.m., the museum celebrated its 40^th anniversary with a reception featuring a time of memory-sharing sparking that same joy and wonder. Attendees enjoyed the opportunity to visit the cultural, natural and art exhibits including The Crossing of The Dan, the History of South Boston and many others that honor and educate about our area.

It indeed was a festive time of celebration when many in the community came together to learn more about the area they call home and better understand the museum’s vision and passion that has served to excite and teach visitors while continuing to hold strong for four decades.

Those attending this special afternoon celebration enjoyed a time of conjuring up fond memories, renewing old friendships and making new ones while enjoying delicious refreshments served by museum volunteers.

Charlotte, a matronly spider and the hero of the E.B. White classic, “Charlotte’s Web,” would be proud of the attention she’s getting at the Halifax County-South Boston Museum of Fine Arts and History with an exhibit showcasing the famous spider who, with the help of subtle messages weaved in her web helped save the life of one of her barnyard friends, in this case Wilbur, the pig, the runt of his litter destined for slaughter.

The exhibit is open to the public beginning Wednesday, June 22 and runs through the summer, in addition to scavenger hunts conducted by museum volunteers both for pre-schoolers and older children.

Charlotte’s Web tells the story of Wilbur and his mentor and friend Charlotte, a brown barn spider who takes Wilbur under her wing and helps him avoid the ax by weaving certain words into her web, such as “radiant”, “some pig”, “humble” and “terrific”.

A brave young farm girl, Fern, originally fights to save Wilbur, allowing him to see another day, and with the tutelage of Charlotte, Wilbur eventually wins a prize at the fair, completing his journey from runt of the litter to champion hog.

Charlotte, by this time older and nearing death, leaves her last batch of eggs in the barn, with several of her prodigy hatching to care for Wilbur.

The barnyard as depicted in the book brings various barnyard animals to life, including Wilbur, Golly the goose and Templeton the rat, all of whom are included in the exhibit, as well as other barnyard animals, such as cows, roosters, goats and geese.

Carolyn Shortt and other museum volunteers Linda Daniels, Pam Smith and Karen Taylor, helped bring the story to life at the museum.  She read “Charlotte’s Web” to grade school children as well as other E.B. White books authored by White including “Stuart Little” and “The Trumpet of the Swan”.

“Come see how Charlotte saves Wilbur, how Fern feeds Wilbur and how Golly tries to spell, and watch the moving story of Charlotte and how she sacrificed to save Wilbur’s life,” Shortt explained in promoting the exhibit.

Shortt added that kids of all ages will be caught up in Charlotte’s web, and parents and grand-parents as well will recognize the lessons the book teaches such as perseverance, loyalty and respect.

A farm boy himself, White may have gotten the idea for Charlotte’s Web after watching a spider spin a web and create an egg site on his farm, and the story has withstood the test of time.