Looking for a quiet place to settle down or invest? Danville, located in beautiful Yell County, might be just what you're searching for. With its friendly residents and charming small-town feel, Danville offers a refreshing change of pace. Come with us as we turn the spotlight on Danville, Arkansas.

Undated photograph of street scene at early Danville (Yell County).
Photo Credit: Kenneth Steele

Historical Highlights

Danville has a rich and interesting history that dates back to the early 1800s. The area was settled in 1836 by Abraham McCarthy near present-day Danville. It was originally known as Spring Creek. But in the late 19th century, it was renamed Danville, possibly in honor of the Danville Steamboat that once navigated the Petit Jean River.

As the county seat of Yell County, Danville has played a major role in the region's development. Its strategic location, where the Ozark and Ouachita Mountains meet, has shaped its unique character and adds to its appeal to a variety of people.

Historical Photo
https://danvillear.gov/history/

Little-Known Facts

Dual County Seats
Danville shares the distinction of being one of two county seats for Yell County, along with Dardanelle

Banking Pioneer
In response to the Great Depression, Judge John E. Chambers founded the Danville State Bank in 1930, which still operates today as Chambers Banks

.Literary Connection
Yell County, where Danville is located, was the setting for Charles Portis' novel "True Grit," later adapted into a film starring John Wayne

Peeler-Gap Road House

One of the more interesting places to visit in Danville is the Peeler Gap Road House. This building listed on the Arkansas Register of Historic Places, has an interesting history and legends that have been passed down through the generations.

It has been reported that the legendary Davy Crockett himself once sought shelter in this very house on his way to the Alamo. This would have been sometime in late 1835 or early 1836.
The house also played a role in the Civil War. It’s said to have been a Confederate outpost during the war, and the small, low window above the porch provided cover for soldiers defending the house.
Local blacksmith Gentry Keener remembered that the massive logs used to build it were cut from the slopes of Danville Mountain, near the Blue Hole. These trees were dragged from the woods, hand-hewn, and then transported to the building site.

Marco Becerra, CC BY-SA 2.0
<https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

Things to Do

Danville is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers:

Mountain Adventures: Three mountain peaks with state parks - Petit Jean, Mount Nebo, and Mt. Magazine - are within a 30-minute drive.
Hiking Trails: Explore the Danville Mountain Trail or venture to the nearby Womble Trail and Ouachita Trail.
Fishing and Hunting: Numerous lakes, rivers, and forests provide ample opportunities for fishing and hunting.
National Forests: The city is uniquely positioned between the Ozark St. Francis National Forest to the north and the Ouachita National Forest to the south

Street scene in downtown Danville (Yell County); 2008
Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism

Community and Culture

Danville boasts a diverse and welcoming community:

Cultural Diversity: The 2010 census reported over 50% of the population as Hispanic, contributing to a rich cultural tapestry.
Education: The city has a comprehensive school system with elementary, middle, and high schools.
Religious Diversity: Various denominations are represented, including Baptist, Methodist, Catholic, and more

Economic Opportunities

Poultry Industry: Wayne Farms, a leader in poultry processing, has been a major employer since 1970.
Agriculture: The surrounding area offers fertile land for farming and agricultural pursuits.

Real Estate Market

Danville presents attractive options for homebuyers and investors:

Affordable Living: The city offers an inexpensive cost of living compared to larger urban areas.
Land Availability: There's plenty of available land for new homes and farms.
Growth Potential: With its strategic location and natural attractions, Danville has seen steady population growth in recent decades.

Whether you're seeking a quiet retirement spot, a family-friendly community, or an investment opportunity, Danville, Arkansas, offers a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and small-town charm. Its strategic location, outdoor recreational opportunities, and growing economy make it an attractive destination for real estate buyers looking for value and quality of life.

Looking for a home or land in Danville, Arkansas? Here’s what currently on the market: Homes for sale in Danville