Preserving the Past, Creating the Future
By restoring The Sanctuary, The Arts Council continues its commitment to preserving Gainesville’s historical landmarks and keeping them alive through community use, creativity, and shared experiences. Thank you for supporting this mission.
A Storied Space in the Heart of Gainesville
Once the First Methodist Church of Gainesville, The Sanctuary is a landmark rich in architectural beauty and local history. Built in 1904 and one of the few buildings to withstand the devastating 1936 tornado, it has long been a symbol of strength and community in downtown Gainesville.
After serving as a home to Westminster Presbyterian Church for many years, the building was generously gifted to The Arts Council, Inc. in 2004 by Lessie and Charles Smithgall. Since then, it has become a cornerstone of our mission to preserve the historic spaces to advance the arts in Northeast Georgia.
We look forward to welcoming the community back into this extraordinary venue—and continuing its legacy as a gathering place for creativity, celebration, and connection.
When renovations are complete, The Sanctuary will offer:A breathtaking main hall with original architectural features
Flexible event space for performances, weddings, and private events
A central location just steps from the downtown square
A one-of-a-kind backdrop for meaningful moments