For much of the 20th century and early 21st century, this modern Tudor Gothic skyscraper of 11 stories housed some of Danville’s leading professionals including doctors and attorneys. Its street level was the address for numerous retail businesses including Patterson’s Drug Store, Brown’s Jewelers, and Beyunes.

Now, the Union Street Theatre has adapted former storefronts just to the right of the former Masonic Temple’s main lobby entrance, as Danville’s first-ever black box theatre. Under the direction of Melissa Charles, Union Street Theatre is evolving as Danville’s most unique performing arts venue; from theatre, to poetry readings, to dance and live music. The location has already hosted Zumba classes, parties and other events, a wide array of workshops and camps, as well as a summer musical theatre series.

This lofty space, now being redeveloped in cooperation with the building’s owner, River City towers, is part of the landmark former Masonic Building, dating from 1921. Its 1901 predecessor, a 3 1⁄2 story building, was destroyed in a fire on January 3, 1920. The Roman Eagle masons built their first temple on this site in 1851.