Danville: A Southern Gem Steeped in History

• HelloHowdy
  [haw-dee]
• GoodbyeSee ya
  [see yuh]
• YesYep
  [yep]
• NoNope
  [nohp]
• Please/You're welcomePlease/No problem
  [pleez/no prob-lum]
• Thank youThanks
  [thaynks]
• Excuse me/SorryExcuse me/My bad
  [ex-kyooz mee/my bad]
• How are you?How y'all doin'?
  [haw y'all doo-in']
• Fine. And you?Fine. How 'bout you?
  [fahyn. how 'bout yuh?]
• Do you speak English?Y'all speak English?
  [y'all speak ing-glish?]
• I don't understandI don't git it
  [ah don't git it]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I check out the menu, please
  [kan ah chek owt thee menu, pleez]
• I don't eat meatI don't eat no meat
  [ah don't eat noh meat]
• Cheers!Cheers!
  [cheers!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseI'll settle up, please
  [ah'll set-tul up, pleez]

• Help!Help!
  [help!]
• Go away!Git outta here!
  [git out-uh heer!]
• Call the Police!Call the cops!
  [call thee cops!]
• Call a doctor!Call a doc!
  [call a dock!]
• I'm lostI'm all turned around
  [ahm all turnd around]
• I'm illI'm feelin' sick
  [ahm feelin' sik]

• I'd like to buy...I wanna buy...
  [ah wanna buy...]
• I'm just lookingI'm just lookin'
  [ahm just lookin']
• How much is it?How much does it cost?
  [how much duz it cost?]
• That's too expensiveThat's too pricey
  [thats tooh pry-see]
• Can you lower the price?Can you drop the price?
  [kan yuh drop thee price?]

• What time is it?What time is it?
  [what time is it?]
• It's one o'clockIt's one o'clock
  [its one o'clock]
• Half past (10)Half past ten
  [half past ten]
• MorningMornin'
  [mornin']
• AfternoonAfternoon
  [afternoon]
• EveningEvenin'
  [evenin']
• YesterdayYest'day
  [yest-day]
• TodayToday
  [today]
• TomorrowTomorrer
  [tomorrer]
• 1One
  [wun]
• 2Two
  [too]
• 3Three
  [three]
• 4Four
  [fawr]
• 5Five
  [fahyv]
• 6Six
  [siks]
• 7Seven
  [sev-uhn]
• 8Eight
  [ayt]
• 9Nine
  [nine]
• 10Ten
  [ten]

• Where's a/the...?Where's a/the...?
  [wheres a/the...?]
• What's the address?What's the address?
  [whats the address?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Can you show me (on the map)?
  [kan yuh show mee (on thee map)?]
• When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
  [whens the next (bus)?]
• A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [uh ticket (to ....)]

One of Danville’s most significant historical moments came in April 1865, when it served as the last capital of the Confederate States of America. After the fall of Richmond, Confederate President Jefferson Davis and his cabinet fled to Danville, where they set up a temporary government at the Sutherlin Mansion. This brief period, although lasting only eight days, is a pivotal chapter in the city’s history and marks Danville as a key location in the final days of the American Civil War.

Danville emerged as a significant tobacco market in the 19th century, establishing itself as a major player in the tobacco trade. The city's location along the Dan River and its rail connections turned it into a bustling center for the tobacco industry. Warehouses and processing plants dotted the landscape, and the annual tobacco auctions became a major economic event. This tobacco boom greatly influenced the city’s development and growth, leaving a lasting legacy on Danville’s economy and culture.

On September 27, 1903, Danville was the site of one of the most famous train wrecks in American history – the wreck of the Old 97. This Southern Railway mail train, known as the Fast Mail, derailed at the Stillhouse Trestle, resulting in the deaths of eleven people. The tragic event was immortalized in the ballad 'Wreck of the Old 97,' which became a popular folk song and brought national attention to Danville. The story of the wreck remains a poignant part of the city's historical narrative.

Danville played a significant role in the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s. The city was the site of numerous protests and demonstrations against racial segregation and inequality. One of the most notable events occurred in June 1963, known as 'Bloody Monday,' when a peaceful protest was met with violent police response. These events highlighted the intense struggle for civil rights in Danville and left an indelible mark on the community’s fight for justice and equality.

In recent years, Danville has undergone significant revitalization efforts, particularly in the historic River District. This area, once the heart of the city’s tobacco and textile industries, has been transformed into a vibrant hub of activity. Historic buildings have been repurposed into modern apartments, shops, restaurants, and cultural venues. The River District’s rejuvenation symbolizes Danville’s resilience and commitment to preserving its rich history while fostering economic growth and community development.

Danville is located in south-central Virginia, near the North Carolina border. The nearest major airport is Piedmont Triad International Airport (GSO) in Greensboro, North Carolina, about 50 miles away. From the airport, you can rent a car or take a taxi to Danville. Another option is Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU), located about 70 miles away. If you prefer traveling by train, Amtrak's Crescent route stops in Danville, connecting it to cities like New York, Atlanta, and New Orleans. Driving is also a viable option, with Danville accessible via U.S. Route 58 and U.S. Route 29.

Danville is a small city, and many attractions are within a short distance of each other. The city's public transportation system, Danville Transit, offers bus services throughout the city. Taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are also available. If you prefer driving, car rentals are available, and the city is easy to navigate with plenty of parking options. For a more leisurely experience, consider renting a bike to explore the Riverwalk Trail and other scenic areas.

The official currency in Danville is the United States Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are readily available throughout the city for cash withdrawals. It's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments or in case of emergencies. Traveler's checks are less commonly used but can be cashed at most banks.

Danville is generally a safe destination for tourists, but it's always wise to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. The North Danville and Westmoreland neighborhoods have higher crime rates and should be avoided, especially after dark. Always stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of an emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Danville has several medical facilities, including Sovah Health-Danville, which provides comprehensive healthcare services. Pharmacies are available across the city for over-the-counter medications. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For non-emergency issues, the Danville Police Department and local fire stations can provide assistance.

Fashion: Do dress comfortably and according to the weather, but avoid overly casual attire in upscale restaurants or events. Religion: Do respect local religious customs and traditions. Public Transport: Do be courteous to other passengers and give up your seat to elderly individuals. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile or a handshake. Eating & Drinking: Do try local Southern cuisine and accept food offerings graciously. Don't rush your meals; dining is often a leisurely activity in Danville.

To experience Danville like a local, visit the Community Market on Saturdays for fresh produce and local crafts. Explore the River District for unique shops, dining, and entertainment options. Engage with locals at events like the Danville Harvest Jubilee and the Festival in the Park. Take a stroll along the Riverwalk Trail for beautiful views of the Dan River and the city's historic architecture. Don't miss the Danville Science Center and the AAF Tank Museum for a deeper dive into the city's history and culture.