Dayton, Virginia

The Town of Dayton is one of the oldest settled communities in Rockingham County, and is the County's second oldest incorporated town. The Dayton area was first settled in the mid-1740s, when because of the fertile land and abundance of fresh spring water, settlers located along Cook's Creek.

Daniel Harrison (c. 1702-1770) came into the Shenandoah Valley from Delaware in 1737 with his entire family. After settling initially in what is now the northeastern part of Rockingham County, Daniel Harrison moved in 1745 to the area of Cook's Creek and about 1748 built his stone house on a rise above the Creek.

The village grew as farming families who traced their roots to England, Scotland and Ireland arrived. By the 1780s, Mennonite families began settling in this lush, fertile valley and added much to the cultural make-up of Dayton.

The Dayton of today still bears many signs of its rich past and history. For those who call the Shenandoah Valley and Dayton home, as well as those who come to visit, there is much in the present and future to be proud of, as well.

The real beauty of the town is its people. Dayton is a blend of families who can trace their ancestors to a time when this community was just a stop on the Warm Spring Turnpike to those who have in recent years brought cultural richness of their own to the town.

Location: Come visit our historic town, downtown shops, Dayton Farmers Market (specialty shops), Fort Harrison (c. 1749), Shenandoah Valley Heritage Center, Silver Lake Mill, 29th Annual Dayton Autumn Celebration, in October downtown. 200 arts/crafts exhibitors, delicious food & more. Free shuttle transit.

Town Offices
125-B Eastview Street
Dayton, VA 22821

Phone: 540-879-9538
Visit www.daytonva.us

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