The Junior League of DeKalb County, Inc. is pleased to announce the renaming of its historic home to 716 West. This new identity was overwhelmingly approved by the League’s membership and represents a shared desire to better reflect the organization’s mission of service and community engagement.

“We are excited about what this change represents for the League, positioning us for future growth and enabling us to better represent our active membership,” said Beth Daniell, the president of the League. “Changing the name of our Headquarters was inherently important to our membership which is why we embarked on an intentional and respectful process that both honored the home’s history and refocused us on the future.”

For more than 40 years, the League has served as stewards of the former Mary Gay House after saving it from demolition and moving it to its current location on West Trinity Place in 1979. Countless members of the league have played a role in its renovation and preservation, ensuring this historic home would remain open and available to the community. The house originally was named for Mary Ann Harris Gay, a writer and poet who was active in documenting and preserving the history of the Confederacy in the years following the Civil War.

Its new name, 716 West, represents the place and purpose of the organization’s permanent home, connecting this historic venue to the community. In emphasizing its geographic connection, the League is better able to foster a more inclusive identity that properly aligns with its diverse membership.

“Through restoration, renovation, and resilience, our members have transformed 716 West into a living piece of history that tells a rich tapestry of stories,” said immediate past President, Mercedes G. Ball. “For nearly 90 years, our organization has been committed to serving our community, and the rebranding of our home continues that journey.”

716 West will continue to serve as a premier hospitality and events venue in DeKalb County, seeking to provide memorable experiences to guests in a unique, historic, and intimate setting. The facility can accommodate up to 125 guests and is used in various capacities, including weddings, rehearsal dinners, birthday parties, baby and bridal showers, class reunions, business meetings, Girl Scout troop home base, and more.