Blog Layout

Saved from Destruction, Historic Foley Building Now Home to Chamber of Commerce

R. Ken Cooper • May 27, 2023

Chamber of Commerce Breathes New Life into Historic Foley Building

Saved from Destruction, Historic Foley Building Now Home to Chamber of Commerce

Foley, Ala. - (OBA) - An enduring symbol of Foley's history, a 97-year-old building originally slated for demolition, now proudly stands as the South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce's new office. The two-story Mission Revival style structure, constructed in 1925 on North Alston Street, was home to the Foley Masonic Lodge for around 50 years before being acquired by the city of Foley in 2002.


Sted McCollough, chairman of the chamber's Board of Directors, stressed the significance of securing a permanent headquarters for the organization. "We've moved quite a bit over the years, but it's truly gratifying to finally root ourselves in this historic edifice in the heart of the city," McCollough reflected.


The chamber, which received the building as a gift from the city in 2021, is experiencing the stability of a permanent home for the first time in its 79-year history. Donna Watts, the Chamber's president and chief executive officer, expressed the group's excitement about the development. "Having a building we can call our own is a tremendous boon. Gone are the days of packing boxes or worrying about outgrowing rented spaces," Watts shared.


The chamber celebrated its relocation by hosting an open house on Monday, May 22, offering the public a glimpse into the refurbished 5,600-square-foot building. The transformation is credited in part to the assistance of Riviera Utilities, who played a crucial role in facilitating the chamber's relocation by buying out the chamber's lease when they left their prior Underwood Road location. Watts acknowledged their support, stating, "The aid from Riviera Utilities was instrumental in enabling the renovations you see today."


However, the potential demolition of the historic building was not always a distant memory. Tim Russell, Foley's mayor from 1996 to 2006, revealed that some had argued for the building's destruction, citing the valuable lot it occupied. "Yet, bringing it down would have erased the history it carries within its walls," Russell noted.


The building's significance extends beyond its new role as the chamber's office. According to Watts, the building's place on the state and national historic registries enhances not only the chamber's standing but also benefits the broader community. "This building will remain a cornerstone of downtown Foley, just as it was during its days as the Masonic Hall," she stated.


The successful transition would not have been possible without a dedicated effort to maintain the historical integrity of the Masonic Lodge building. The chamber worked closely with the Foley Historical Commission throughout the renovation process to ensure this preservation.


Local city councilman Charles Ebert III commended the Chamber's decision to make the historic building their new home, highlighting the integral role it plays in the ongoing rejuvenation of the city's downtown area. "Having the Chamber situated in this historic edifice truly breathes life and soul into our downtown district," Ebert observed.


Share this article w/ Friends...

Elberta's Spring Sausage Festival
By OBA Staff 29 Mar, 2024
There are many local festivals during spring but the Elberta German Sausage Festival is one of the long-cherished events. Started in 1978 to help support the small community Fire Department of Elberta, the event has grown into a "have to attend at least once" for local and tourist alike. Visitors can learn about the history of the German settlers in the area and how they contributed to the culture and traditions of the community.
Safeguarding the Alabama Beach Mouse
By Puffer Thompson 29 Mar, 2024
They may be tiny, but the Alabama Beach Mouse plays a huge role in maintaining the ecological balance of our coastal ecosystem. By making their homes in the sandy dunes, they contribute to the overall health of lower Alabama beaches in multiple ways, including:
530 Acre Controlled Burn Underway in Elberta
By R. Ken Cooper 28 Mar, 2024
In an effort to manage vegetation and reduce wildfire risk, a controlled burn is currently underway on a 530-acre tract located at 8807 Baptist Camp Road in Elberta, Alabama. This planned burn is part of a broader strategy to maintain the health of the local ecosystem, protect communities from the threat of uncontrolled wildfires, and enhance habitat for wildlife.
Gulf Shores Shooting Drew Quick Police Action
By R. Ken Cooper 28 Mar, 2024
A shooting incident occurred on Wednesday night in the Surf Style Parking area near Gulf Place in Gulf Shores. The streets were filled with spring breakers. The Gulf Shores Police Department received a call about the incident at approximately 8:51 p.m. A 21-year-old male suspect was taken into custody at the Wal-Mart parking lot. A juvenile male victim was transported to the hospital, where he was later reported to be in stable condition.
Foley's Skies Will Light Up With Color For The 20th Annual Hot Air Balloon Festival
By R. Ken Cooper 28 Mar, 2024
Foley is gearing up for the 20th Annual Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival, set to take place from May 2 to 4, 2024. This year's festival will be once again hosted at OWA Parks & Resort. This is the fourth consecutive year OWA has hosted the event.
Gulf Shores’ Meyer Park Is Going To The Dogs
By R. Ken Cooper 28 Mar, 2024
The City of Gulf Shores announces a new event that promises to be a tail-wagging good time for both residents and their canine companions. The inaugural Doggy Fest 2024 is set to take place at Meyer Park on Saturday, April 20th, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Former Foley Mayor Koniar
By Guy Busby 27 Mar, 2024
Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey authorized flags in Foley to be flown at half staff Thursday, March 28, in recognition of former Mayor John Koniar. Koniar, 80, died Friday at his home in Foley. In issuing the order, Ivey authorized Mayor Ralph Hellmich to direct that flags in Foley be at half staff from sunrise until sunset Thursday. In a statement, she said Koniar had a long history of dedicated service to Foley and the country.
Bike Rack Stock Photo
By R. Ken Cooper 27 Mar, 2024
The Foley Main Street Community Foundation, on behalf of multiple local stakeholders, has announced a Request for Proposals (RFP) to create artistic bicycle racks to enhance Downtown Foley. This initiative seeks to combine practicality with artistry, providing secure and aesthetically pleasing bicycle storage solutions.
Baldwin County 911 New Director
By OBA Staff 27 Mar, 2024
In a move that bolsters the Baldwin County 911 Center's leadership and operational capabilities, the Board, chaired by David Wilson, has appointed Kristi Stamnes as the new Director. Bringing an extensive background in public safety and emergency response leadership, Stamnes is poised to take the helm at the center. With the recent restructuring to include two Deputy Directors, the center is set to tackle the challenges of unprecedented growth in the county. Stamnes's appointment is seen as a strategic step in ensuring excellence in customer service and fostering the development of future leaders within the organization.
Alabama's Red Snapper Season Opens in Gulf of Mexico May 24th
By OBA Staff 26 Mar, 2024
The Marine Resources Division (MRD) of the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (ADCNR) announces that Alabama state waters and federal waters will open to private and state-licensed charter vessel anglers for red snapper harvest on Friday, May 24, 2024. The season will consist of four-day weekends, Friday through Monday, beginning Friday, May 24, and continue until the private angler quota is projected to be met. Additionally, the entire week that includes Independence Day (July 1-5) will be open for red snapper fishing.
Show More
Share by: