In 1932 Miss Anna Mercer Dunlop considered the Dean of Petersburg Artists founded the Petersburg Area Art League, creating a legacy of art in Old Towne Petersburg.  In 1959 PAAL began the Poplar Lawn Arts Festival, an annual tradition drawing people from around the region until the late 1990s.   In 1971 PAAL moved into current day location of 7 E. Old Street. 

Over a decade later the building would be donated to the League by a lifetime resident of Petersburg, Nan Seward Jones. Nan Seward Jones lifelong interest in the field of art started at an early age when she studied under the tutelage of  Anna Dunlop. She was accomplished in all mediums ranging from oil to pen and ink.  Mrs. Jones alongside Ms. Dunlop was instrumental in the establishment of the Petersburg Area Art League.