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.