Just in time for a beautiful spring walk, fifty-six (56) markers have been installed on homes and properties throughout the Old West End.

A partnership between the City of Danville and Friends of the Old West End secured a grant from Virginia’s Department of Historic Resources (DHR). Much of the cost of the markers was offset by the grant.  The primary goal of the project was to promote the Old West End Historic District through a digital platform. The smart-phone-readable QR Codes on each marker link to information about the properties on this website and to a Story Map on the City’s website offering even more information.

The project offers many benefits in addition to promoting the Old West End. DHR is pleased by the education benefits of the project including the name and age of the homes plus their historic designation. Our neighbors with markers are proud of their homes and anxious for friends and visitors to know more. And the markers will spur the further revitalization of the district.

It is also hoped that the markers will help to promote Danville as a historic tourism destination. That will generate revenue for Old West End businesses and the city as a whole.

A walk in the Old West End will be fun. It’s an adventure. You’ll see things you miss from your car. And you are likely to meet some interesting new people.

And let’s not forget the many benefits of walking for health and recreation. Time spent walking outdoors improves people’s moods, makes them more creative, reduces stress and blood pressure, helps to shed those winter weight gains, and increases Vitamin D levels.

Hopefully, even more markers can be installed in the future.

So, take a walk in the Old West End and scan a marker with your phone.  It’s a win-win-win.  You’ll be smarter, healthier, and have more friends – Friends of the Old West End.