A corner tower with conical turret, balanced by a clipped gable and an inviting porch which wraps around two sides are just some of the noteworthy features typical of the late-1890s construction date of this stylish Queen Anne- style dwelling. The imposing house also commands attention because it closes the vista on a prominent corner as one heads west on West Main Street. It was built for one of the city’s leading furniture dealers of the late 19th century, John W. Ferrell, and his family.

In 1920 the Ferrells left Danville for Richmond. For the next 75 years, two families had long associations with the West Main Street house. It was first home to Mr. and Mrs. W. Howard Dodson and their family. In 1951 it was conveyed to Mr. Robert A. Cooney. In 1971 his widow, the former Odessa Denny, inherited the property where she lived many years with her second husband, Mr. Dempsey G. Williams.

The present owners, Robert and Sandra Marsh, acquired the property in 1997 from Mrs. Williams, who is Mrs. Marsh’s aunt. Since then, their sensitive and ongoing restoration has realized the potential of the house, which is rated Excellent in the the City’s architectural inventory. Evident also throughout the period interior are examples of artwork by the Marshes, both of whom are artists, as well as works by other highly-regarded painters and printmakers.