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Conservation/Historic Preservation
 
The Dan River region is rich in history and never fails to offer surprises. One example of a hidden gem lies in the new Mayo River State Park in western Rockingham County, North Carolina. The study area for the park extends along the Mayo River for a dozen or so river miles, from the NC/Virginia state line to the town of Mayodan. Just north of Mayodan, and included in the park property, is the remains of the old Mayo River Park established by Washington Mills in 1948.

The park’s picnic shelter and bath house were designed by famed architect, Antonin Raymond. Born in the Czech Republic, Raymond joined Frank Lloyd Wright at Taliesin in 1916 and helped with the design and construction of the Imperial Hotel in Japan.  Raymond is revered for his contributions to modern Western architecture in that country.

Raymond’s firm, Raymond and Rado Architects in New York City, was engaged to design the structures for the park. Crafted of hickory and cedar, the building material was unvarnished and unpainted, and the fireplace was made of local stone. All supporting beams were visible, and the open nature of the construction was intended to, according to Raymond, “keep the buildings in harmony with the surroundings.”

While the bath house is beyond repair, DRBA has worked with the NC State Parks to recover and store as many intact elements of the bath house as possible for future use and interpretation in the park. The picnic shelter, with its massive stone fireplace, will be restored to its former glory. 

DRBA works to protect other cultural and historic resources, including the Dan River Batteau Navigation System.(Download sides one and two of the pdf brochure.) DRBA is investigating National Historic Landmark status for the navigation system and is in the process of developing area-wide strategies for identifying and protecting heritage resources across the region. DRBA recognizes the value of efforts to collaborate across borders to develop and foster a regional identity

 
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Dan River Basin Association

Suite 401, 413 Church St.
Eden, NC 27288
Phone: 336.627.6270
drba.nc@danriver.org
 

Henry County
Administration Building
PO Box 7
Collinsville, VA 24078
Phone: 276-634-2545
drba.va@danriver.org

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