Historic. Elegant. Authentic.
About Us
Dedication to Our Mission
The Arts Council, true to its mission, offers a wide range of functions and events to the community. In the past it has received grants for art education in the Decatur County School System, sponsored concerts and cabarets, held readers theaters, displayed exhibits, housed the Georgia Historic Preservation workshop for area teachers, developed an educational series of brown-bag luncheons, and many other activities. The council will continue serving the community with its exceptional programming.
Mission Statement
The Bainbridge-Decatur County Council for the Arts is commited to the enrichment of community life through the arts.
An Alluring History
In 1914, William Augustus Edwards, a prominent Atlanta architect designed the City Hall and Firehouse in the corner of Crawford and Water Streets in Downtown Bainbridge, Georgia.
Through the years, community life has revolved around the building as it has served as City Hall, Library, and Public Safety Building. The city depended on the Firehouse for protection of its lives and property from Opening Day until the last fire truck pulled away, closing the massive bay doors– and the building itself, for many years to come.
The building reflects the Mission style architecture popular in the early part of this century for public buildings. Typically made of brick and cast stone, Mission buildings feature shaped parapet walls, arched doorways, classical entrances, and broad overhangs.
Many of these public buildings have been razed in the path of progress. The Bainbridge building is the only example of Mission architecture in this part of the state. Considering the age and numerous changes that have occurred over time, the structure is in good condition. Although generally concealed, in this instance, original detail is evident throughout the building.
Reviving Elegance
Now this historic building is assuming a new role in community life as a cultural center. Following renovation, it will serve as home to the Bainbridge-Decatur County Council for the Arts and Firehouse Arts Center.
The complex is located in the Downtown Historic District which was listed as a National Historic Landmark in November 1987.
Donations to support the restoration may be made to:
Firehouse Arts Center
P.O. Box 35
Bainbridge, Georgia 39818
*All donations are tax deductible.
The Firehouse Arts Center Board Members & Staff
Officers
Phyllis Lucas
Curator, Kirbo Gallery
Lauren Turner
President
Ashley Long
Vice President
Linda Gisondi
Secretary
Gerard Kwiliecki
Treasurer
Board Members
Debbie Elkins
Shawna King
Lynda Todaro
Fran Trulock
Jesse Steen
Barbara Intili
Delrose Betts
Randee Eubanks
Jessica Polsky
Lorenda Smith
Firehouse Staff
Leigh Parsons
Administrative Director
Lynn Davis
Art Director