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Fayette Area Historical Initiative
We collect, preserve, and interpret the African-American experience of Martinsville-Henry county, capturing history in real time and passing the torch to the next generation.
Take a Journey to the Past,
and Empower the Future.
The June
German Ball
Save the Date For Our Signature Event !
Born in 1938 on Baldwin's Block , the heart of Martinsville's Black business district, the June German Ball was one of the most celebrated African-American gala events in the South. Founded by the Baldwin Brothers, it drew hundreds of attendees from Burlington, Raleigh, Durham, and cities across Virginia.
The historic event featured performers such as Otis Redding and Jimmie Lunceford & His Dance Orchestra, one of the premier jazz big bands of the era. For nearly 30 years, the Ball was the homecoming event of the year, a celebration of community, culture, and Black excellence.
FAHI is proud to bring it back — honoring the tradition, the music, and the people who made Baldwin's Block a beacon.
Upcoming Events & Programs
From our signature gala to oral history workshops,
FAHI brings the community together year-round.
DATE
JUN
27
GALA & CELEBRATION
The June German Ball
An evening of jazz, history, and community. Formal attire. Live soul music.
LIMITED TICKETS AVAILABLE
coming
SOON
INTERACTIVE TOUR
Fayette Street Walking Tour
Hear the untold stories of the history of Fayette Street narrated by those who lived it.
ONGOING PROGRESS
available
NOW
ONGOING PROGRAMS
Explore Our Exhibits
FAHI regularly hosts student tours. Group visits available by appointment — call (276) 732-3496.
SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT
"To collect, preserve, and interpret the African-American experience in Martinsville and Henry County through oral history, public forums, workshops, lectures, and special programs."
OUR MISSION
Current Exhibit
Pro Athletes of
Martinsville-Henry County
25 local athletes who reached the professional level from James Burton Hairstone (b.1891) to modern-day legends. Former WBC champ Oliver McCall visited for the launch.
Source: Cardinal News, Aug 2025
Permenant Exhibit
Imperial Savings & Loan Wall
An entire wall dedicated to the Imperial Savings & Loan Association — established 1929, the last Black-owned savings & loan in Virginia, closed 2010.
Source: Martinsville Bulletin
Permenant Exhibit
Pioneers in Business, Medicine & Education
Chronicling African-American pioneers in business, medicine, education, religion, military service, and the arts — including Tuskegee Airman Armour McDaniel.
Source: Cardinal News / FAHI Museum
Explore Our Exhibits
From pioneering educators to historic businesses — our exhibits tell the full story of African-American life in Martinsville and Henry County.
In The Press
FAHI's work and legacy as covered by local and regional media.
Martinsville celebrates 20th anniversary of FAHI — the only African-American history museum in a 30-mile radius
• WDBJ7 News
FAHI and New College Institute mark milestones together, launching the Harlem Renaissance exhibit and Gala at Baldwin Block.
Harvest Foundation awards FAHI a 3-year grant for strategic growth
• Martinsville Bulletin
"FAHI's preservation of African-American history is vital to our community," said India Brown, Harvest Foundation program officer
'This small area can produce big things.' Black history museum honors pro athletes from Martinsville
• Cardinal News
25 local professional athletes featured in a new FAHI exhibit, with former WBC heavyweight champ Oliver McCall attending the launch.
June German Ball to make a comeback; FAHI revives the historic 1938 tradition
• Henry County Enterprise
The Fayette Area Historical Initiative (FAHI) is bringing back the June German Ball to celebrate the past.
“It is like taking a step back in time and reliving history,” said Leutisha Galloway.
Support The Mission
Help Us Keep
History Alive
FAHI depends on the generosity of donors and partners who believe African-American history deserves to be preserved, celebrated, and shared. Grants and individual gifts fund exhibits, oral history programs, educational outreach, and staff.
DONATION TIERS
Keeper of History $150 - $249
Museum Partner $250 - $499
Friend of History $500 - $999
Dillard Society $1000 - $2499
Baldwin Society $2500 - $4999
Imperial Society $5000 +
FAHI is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. All donations are tax-deductible.
Frequency
One time
Monthly
Yearly
Amount
Museum Partner
$250
Friend of History
$500
Dillard Society
$1,000
Other
0/100
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