Dillard's Enterprises
Known Name(s)
Dillard's Enterprises
Address
802 W. Fayette Martinsville, VA
Establishment Type(s)
Tourist Home, Restaurant, Barber Shop, Beauty Parlor
Physical Status
Extant
Description
The building has been altered since its depiction in an ad in the 1961 Green Book issue. The gable, which has a plaque saying "Dillard 1946" has been raised and a stone cladding has been added to the primary/south elevation.
Detailed History
According to Virginia Historical Marker A107, Fayette Street in Martinsville served as a gateway to the social, business, and cultural life of African Americans in the community since the late 19th century. Institutions such as the Mt. Zion AME Church (founded in 1870), St. Mary's Hospital (1928-1952), Piedmont Christian Institute (1900-1934), and Imperial Savings and Loan (founded 1929) were pillars of the community. Another Green Book site, Baldwin's Pharmacy at 141 Fayette, stood in "Baldwin's Block (1920s-1960s), named for a prominent African American family.
