A Deep Rooted History | Penn House

HISTORY

THE PENN HOUSE

On the National Register of Historic Places, the Penn House is a magnificent 12,500-square-foot home located on three beautifully landscaped acres. The original home was built by Charles and Stella Penn around 1908. Charles was the Vice President of American Tobacco, which was the leading employer in Rockingham County. The home burned in 1931 and was rebuilt in 1932 in the Colonial Revival Style.

Today it serves not only as a historic home, but also as the area's premier wedding and event destination offering a unique atmosphere and the best in southern hospitality.

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CITY OF REIDSVILLE HISTORY

The early roots of Reidsville, incorporated in 1873 by the State Legislature, date back to the early 1800s when William Wright of the Little Troublesome Creek area owned a tavern and store on the road connecting Danville, Va. and Salem. This outpost, called Wright’s Cross Roads, was the earliest settlement in the present-day City.

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REIDSVILLE SHOWCASE AT ROCKINGHAM THEATRE

Reidsville Showcase has renovated and rejuvenated this historical theatre, now a showpiece for entertainment in downtown Reidsville. The theatre will host national recording artists live in concert. According to owners Dewey and Leslie Brown, “Concerts held in this type of venue offer a different experience than a larger venue. Fans can enjoy their favorite recording artists in an intimate and personal performance space. Audience size is limited and there’s not a bad seat in the house."

UPCOMING SHOWS

GOVERNOR REID HOUSE

This 1881 Victorian structure was the home of Governor David Settle Reid for the last 10 years of his life. He was one of the six governors from Rockingham County, and the City of Reidsville bears his family name. This home was the first structure in Reidsville to be listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

With assistance from the Community Development Staff, members of the Reidsville Historic Preservation Commission are the caretakers of this historic home.
The Governor Reid House is located on the corner of Southeast Market Street and Lawsonville Avenue.
Tours can be arranged by contacting the Community Development Department at (336) 349-1065.

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CHINQUA-PENN TRAIL

Take a step back in history to 1920 when rural was king and farming was big business. The Chinqua-Penn Trail is a nature lovers dream. A moderate to easy trail name after the families that owned the land for generations and were very influential in the growth of Reidsville and the surrounding area.

In the words of Chinqua-Penn’s builder and owner, the late Jefferson Penn, “Come, and you may find some meditation for the mind, some solace for the soul, some harmony for the heart...”