A distinctive eyebrow window and shingled gables and porches are hallmarks of the Queen Anne-style dwelling built in 1895 for a successful tobacconist, Walter T. Paxton. Paxton’s property is part of a larger Main Street tract acquired in antebellum days by his father, John W. Paxton, a renowned silversmith and clockmaker of the early 19th century.

His daughter, Dabney Paxton Grant, lived here in the old family home her entire life. Since her death some 20 years ago, three young, active families have called 815 Main Street home. These residents include the Danville-area’s legislator in Virginia’s House of Delegates, Whittington W. Clement, as well as a young neurologist who moved here from England to establish his practice, Dr. Jeffrey Crittenden. 

The most recent of these owners, Dr. & Mrs. Dan Cahill, have lived here for just over two years. Like their predecessors, the Cahills and their growing sons appreciate the American Picturesque styling of the exterior, as well as its spacious rooms, with original features like a radiator plate warmer, and updates like the sensitively renovated kitchen with its AGA cooker.

A sports den upstairs features memorabilia of famous baseball, hockey and basketball athletes.