Located in southside Virginia along the North Carolina border, Martinsville and surrounding Henry County form a quaint community brimming with unexpected history and offering easy access to the great outdoors. This small-town area offers more than just standard Southern hospitality, however. Visit the Smithsonian-affiliated Virginia Museum of Natural History, boat along the 3,000 acres of Philpott Lake, and take in a live performance at a variety of venues. Whether you’re watching the thunderous spectacle of Martinsville Speedway’s NASCAR racing or immersing yourself in the eclectic rhythms of the Rooster Walk Music & Arts Festival, you’ll quickly discover this area defies expectations and offers a delightful blend of adventure and charm.
A History of Deep Roots
Martinsville and Henry County have a rich heritage in textiles, furniture, and motorsports– industries that have profoundly shaped the area’s history and continue to influence its present and future.
From humble beginnings, companies like Bassett Furniture Industries, American of Martinsville, Hooker Furniture Company, and Stanley Furniture emerged, creating jobs and prosperity for the local community. These companies furnished homes across the nation leaving an indelible mark on the American furniture landscape.
Simultaneously, Martinsville-Henry County became a hub for textile manufacturing, drawing on the region’s abundant labor force and strategic location. Textile pioneers like Robert L. Walker, William L. Pannill, and Samuel Walker established mills and factories, producing a wide range of textile goods, from towels and underwear to nylon yarn. The industry thrived, benefiting from the expertise of local workers and the support of forward-thinking entrepreneurs.
The success of both the furniture and textile industries in Martinsville-Henry County not only provided employment opportunities but also fostered a sense of community pride and identity. The legacy of craftsmanship and innovation left by these industries continues to be celebrated through initiatives like the Furniture Heritage Plaza and the Textile Heritage Trail, which highlight the region’s industrial past and honor its entrepreneurial spirit. Despite challenges and changes in the global economy, Martinsville-Henry County remains a testament to resilience, renewal, and the enduring impact of its deep-rooted industries.
Martinsville’s enduring legacy is also intertwined with the iconic Martinsville Speedway. Originally created as a dirt track in 1947, it swiftly became a fixture in the inaugural NASCAR season in 1948. Over the years, guests have watched in fascination as drivers navigate the challenging “half-mile of mayhem,” characterized by its 800-foot straights and sharp 11-degree turns, earning the speedway the affectionate nickname “the paperclip.”
With a steadfast commitment to honoring its past while embracing the opportunities of tomorrow, Martinsville-Henry County is writing the next chapter of its storied history—a narrative defined by resilience, progress, and a vibrant community spirit.
