Henry County was named for Patrick Henry, revolutionary leader and the first governor of the commonwealth of Virginia. It was formed from Pittsylvania County in 1776.

Beginning in 1776, various Acts of Assembly attempted to establish free and public schools in the commonwealth although the issues of taxation to support public education and state control over the process were always contentious. The Literary Fund was authorized by the General Assembly in 1810 to direct state funds acquired through escheats, confiscations, penalties, forfeitures and all rights in personal property found derelict towards public education. The District Free School act of 1829 attempted to establish public schools in all counties via the voluntary contribution of local money with additional funds provided by the state Literary Fund but this act was ultimately deemed a failure. The early 1840s saw a revival of interest in public education and two state educational conventions were held in Richmond in 1841 and 1845. The result of the conventions was the passage of three acts including the 1846 Act to Amend the Present Primary System, the 1846 Act for the Establishment of a District System, and the 1846 act concerning taxation for the support of a public school system. The Henry County free schools were established as a result of these 1846 acts.