John Theo Jr. 
Crossing of the Dan Monument By John Theo Jr.
A few years ago, we celebrated the 240th anniversary of The Crossing of the Dan, a major Revolutionary War event that occurred in modern-day Turbeville and Boyd’s Ferry in South Boston. Many history books don’t focus on the river crossing as it was not a glorious battle but a tactical retreat. However, the Crossing of the Dan helped swing momentum in the Continental Army’s favor. Had it not occurred, we might not have had the climactic battle at Yorktown.
The Crossing of the Dan is one of the significant honors Halifax County residents proudly mention when describing their home. To commemorate this, a permanent exhibit is on display at the South Boston-Halifax Museum. Still, many don’t realize we also have a monument marking the exact historical spot by the Dan River.
The monument is located just off Seymour Drive in downtown South Boston. The Halifax County Historical Society created it in 2003. Ted Daniel, former South Boston town manager, said the project’s genesis came about one afternoon when a group of historians met at The Prizery to discuss developing an exhibit or display to memorialize the crossing event of 1781. From there, a group started meeting to discuss what could be done. They drove to Guilford Courthouse in Greensboro to research a preexisting Crossing of the Dan exhibit and were a bit underwhelmed. “We wanted something bigger,” Daniel explained.
During this research phase, someone found an 1890 map that cross-referenced old pylons from the Traver Bridge. Using this, James Temple, a local surveyor, pinpointed the exact spot where the historical crossing took place. From there, Daniel credits Halifax County Historical Society President Barbara Bass with spearheading the fundraising for the monument.
The monument comprises numerous pieces. Reaves Lawn and Garden created a stone base. South Boston Marble and Granite Memorials manufactured the central granite obelisk. On it are inscriptions of appreciation for General Nathanael Greene and the Colonial Army. This focal piece is surrounded by historical pictographs explaining the timeline and significance of the crossing. Surrounding this is beautiful wrought iron fencing created by Lewis Metal Works. Finally, there is a small mock-up of a ferry boat used in the historic crossing. Behind the monument is Old Glory mounted on what appears to be a piece of random concrete. This is the base of the analog river gauge from the first half of the 20th century. The setting also includes a bench surrounded by plenty of green space, making it a perfect picnic destination.
When I asked Daniel about future plans for the monument and surrounding space, he said the historical society plans to improve the signs and do more cleaning. However, several long-term goals include the creation of a housing structure to better display the ferry. Additionally, Daniel hopes the town or the historical society can acquire more land in and around Seymour Drive to improve the entrance to the site. Much of this will depend upon the town of South Boston or the historical society’s ability to acquire the properties. While the Halifax County Historical Society cleans and maintains the monument, the town owns and maintains all the land. Daniel went out of his way to say how gracious the town has been in partnering with the historical society over the years.
Daniel further said that much of the monument’s future was tied directly to the Riverdale “greening” project. Once complete, it will be a fantastic first-look experience as cars pull off the highway and enter the town of South Boston through Riverdale. Instead of abandoned buildings, they will see vast green spaces with plantings, walking trails, and signage.
“There will be spots where people can pull over and read markers about the Campaign of 1781,” Daniel said. A gateway sign will be placed near the new boat ramp. Other parking and signage will be added to show what’s farther ahead in town, such as the museum, directions to the river, and the crossing site.
The Crossing of the Dan Commemoration has been recognized as a Tier One Event by the Sons of the American Revolution, (SAR) and it is celebrated and supported by SAR chapters in and outside of Virginia. The ability to attract noted historians as guest speakers has contributed to that national recognition.
Daniel said he could not overstate the importance of this event in our country’s history. “We are the nexus between Guilford Courthouse and Yorktown. We want visitors traveling between those two battlefields to visit the site of the strategic retreat that made American independence possible.” Had the ferries on the Dan River not been in that strategic spot, we might still be under British rule today.
On the next sunny day when you grab a cup of coffee at Southern Plenty or Busy Bean, take a stroll down to the monument. Maybe you’ll strike up a pleasant conversation with someone with a line in the water angling for a catfish. Enjoy the beautiful weather southern Virginia offers and the work done by the Halifax County Historical Society. We must not forget our past and never take it for granted.
The Crossing of the Dan exhibit is on permanent display at the South Boston and Halifax Museum, 1540 Wilborn Ave., (434)572-9200. It is open Wednesday through Saturday, 10 am to 4 pm. Admission is FREE, but donations are welcome.
The Halifax County Historical Society single-handedly maintains the upkeep of the monument. By Ted Daniel’s admission, they are “getting up” in years and are looking for the next generation to take over. If you are interested in joining or donating to the Halifax County Historical Society, please reach out to Barbara Bass.
The Halifax Historical Society
Barbara Bass, President
(434) 579-0083
[email protected]