The iconic corner doors of the historic Allen’s Market building, built in 1911, will be getting a facelift thanks to the Watson-Brown Foundation Junior Board.

The Watson-Brown Foundation Junior Board is composed of eight to fifteen high school students who are in the 10th-12th grade from central Georgia who demonstrate a passion for historic preservation, are active in the community, have good academic standing and have strong references from teachers. Each year, the board is responsible for reviewing and selecting applications for preservation grants. Since its inception, the board has awarded more than $100,000 in historic preservation grants.

This year, the board graciously chose Allied Arts as a grant recipient, awarding the non-profit organization $3,600 for a much-needed replacement of the corner doors on the Allen’s Market building. Located on what was once the black-business district, the building was used as a grocery market for several years. These days, the city-owned building is managed by Allied Arts and is used for performances, classes, workshops, blood-drives, and can be rented by community members. There is also a collection of historical Milledgeville photos on permeant display inside the building. The update of the doors will be the latest improvement in a series of updates that have included an ADA compliant ramp leading to the corner doors, all new flooring, plumbing updates, updated light fixtures, and the installation of ceiling fans.

For more information about the Watson-Brown Foundation program or how to nominate a student, contact Matt Davis, director and coordinator of the Junior Board project at 478-445-4545.