Welcome to Downtown Bainbridge!

Historic Downtown Bainbridge

116 W Water St

This is the first courthouse built on this site; prior ones were located in what is now Willis Park. The parcel at the northwest corner of West and Water Streets was purchased in February 1901 for $2,490. A contract for construction was given to W. H. Carr for $32,500, but the building was actually constructed by Nicholas Ittner. The Courthouse was designed by noted architect Alexander Blair. With its tall corner clock tower, the building serves as a symbolic anchor of the downtown Bainbridge “Square.” Blair sought to create a Neoclassically designed building with Georgian qualities and overlaid with Renaissance ornamentation. The cornerstone was laid on August 27, 1902. The original clock, weighing 1.5 tons, is still in use.

116 W Water St

116 West Water Street

This is the first courthouse built on this site; prior ones were located in what is now Willis Park. The parcel at the northwest corner of West and Water Streets was purchased in February 1901 for $2,490. A contract for construction was given to W. H. Carr for $32,500, but the building was actually constructed by Nicholas Ittner. The Courthouse was designed by noted architect Alexander Blair. With its tall corner clock tower, the building serves as a symbolic anchor of the downtown Bainbridge “Square.” Blair sought to create a Neoclassically designed building with Georgian qualities and overlaid with Renaissance ornamentation. The cornerstone was laid on August 27, 1902. The original clock, weighing 1.5 tons, is still in use.

300 E Water St

Originally known as the Sharon House, in 1901, the building dominating the Water Street side of the Square was significantly remodeled by the owners, Dr. J. D. Chason and brothers Middleton and Erasmus Powell. At this time, the new three-story brick structure containing fifty-three guest rooms was renamed the Hotel Bon Air, and was operated by Mrs. B. D. Fudge as a “new and elegantly equipped commercial traveler’s home.” Over the years, the building changed names and ownership and eventually fell into disrepair. The balconies had been removed, windows boarded up, and it suffered from significant amounts of water damage. In 1999, Hal Carter of Sylvester, Georgia, believed he could save the Bon Air from demolition. He purchased the property from the Georgia Trust for Historic Preservation’s Revolving Fund for Endangered Properties and renovated the building into upscale apartments with commercial space on the ground level. In 2001, the Bon Air was selected as one of seven Historic Preservation success stories during the National Historic Preservation Conference.

300 E Water St

300 East Water Street

Originally known as the Sharon House, in 1901, the building dominating the Water Street side of the Square was significantly remodeled by the owners, Dr. J. D. Chason and brothers Middleton and Erasmus Powell. At this time, the new three-story brick structure containing fifty-three guest rooms was renamed the Hotel Bon Air, and was operated by Mrs. B. D. Fudge as a “new and elegantly equipped commercial traveler’s home.” Over the years, the building changed names and ownership and eventually fell into disrepair. The balconies had been removed, windows boarded up, and it suffered from significant amounts of water damage. In 1999, Hal Carter of Sylvester, Georgia, believed he could save the Bon Air from demolition. He purchased the property from the Georgia Trust for Historic Preservation’s Revolving Fund for Endangered Properties and renovated the building into upscale apartments with commercial space on the ground level. In 2001, the Bon Air was selected as one of seven Historic Preservation success stories during the National Historic Preservation Conference.

418 E Broughton St

This one and a half story frame bungalow was built by Melvin H. Nussbaum in 1928. It is a beautiful example of the Craftsman style. Note the unusual flagstone porch and column construction.

418 E Broughton St

418 East Broughton Street

This one and a half story frame bungalow was built by Melvin H. Nussbaum in 1928. It is a beautiful example of the Craftsman style. Note the unusual flagstone porch and column construction.

506 E Broughton St

Calvin C. Willis built this house in the Arts & Crafts Prairie style in 1919. It was the first house in Bainbridge to have a central heating system. The architect who designed this house also designed the First Baptist Church building (name?). A duplicate of this house is located at 420 E. Shotwell Street.

506 E Broughton St

506 East Broughton Street

Calvin C. Willis built this house in the Arts & Crafts Prairie style in 1919. It was the first house in Bainbridge to have a central heating system. The architect who designed this house also designed the First Baptist Church building (name?). A duplicate of this house is located at 420 E. Shotwell Street.

507 E Broughton St

Mr. M. V. Woodhull from Monroe, New York constructed this house as a winter home in 1885. It was originally built in the Queen Anne style, but was extensively remodeled in the 1940s. During this time, the original porch and turret, which was once above the current sunroom, were removed. Traces of the Queen Anne style can still be seen on the side of the house at the top eave.

507 E Broughton St

507 East Broughton Street

Mr. M. V. Woodhull from Monroe, New York constructed this house as a winter home in 1885. It was originally built in the Queen Anne style, but was extensively remodeled in the 1940s. During this time, the original porch and turret, which was once above the current sunroom, were removed. Traces of the Queen Anne style can still be seen on the side of the house at the top eave.

St John's Episcopal Church

In 1873, Mr. B. F. Bruton donated a parcel of land on West Street and the construction of a church building commenced. The church was almost complete when a storm struck Bainbridge and demolished it. After the storm, the original building site was abandoned and a new parcel was purchased on Broughton Street from Abner Belcher. Construction began on a new church building in the Carpenter Gothic Style, and the first service was held in the spring of 1885. St. John’s is believed to be the oldest church building in continuous use in Decatur County. The narthex entry is not original to the structure. The rope for the church bell, which is still rung by hand each Sunday at 10:30 am, and some of the windows are original.

St John's Episcopal Church

516 E Broughton St

In 1873, Mr. B. F. Bruton donated a parcel of land on West Street and the construction of a church building commenced. The church was almost complete when a storm struck Bainbridge and demolished it. After the storm, the original building site was abandoned and a new parcel was purchased on Broughton Street from Abner Belcher. Construction began on a new church building in the Carpenter Gothic Style, and the first service was held in the spring of 1885. St. John’s is believed to be the oldest church building in continuous use in Decatur County. The narthex entry is not original to the structure. The rope for the church bell, which is still rung by hand each Sunday at 10:30 am, and some of the windows are original.

608 E Broughton St

Circa 1906, this two-story frame house was built by Frank Jones, a banker from Blakely, Georgia, and Decatur County Historian. He wrote the extensively detailed, A History of Decatur County. This history tells the story of the region from Indian times to 1968. Valuable genealogical information is contained in accounts of early settlers, soldiers, and landowners; abstracts of the earliest marriage licenses, wills, and deeds; city officials of Bainbridge and surrounding towns; heads of families in the 1830 Census; tax digests and taxpayers of the 19th century; a long list of county officials; church pastors and members; members of organizations; and military companies, especially in the Civil War. The general history of the county also gives valuable information about residents and events. This book is a well-documented, carefully researched history with an abundance of both general and statistical information. In 1959, the home saw a kitchen remodel along with a three-story addition on the East end of the home which included a master bedroom, two bathrooms, den, and basement, designed by noted residential architect Frank McCall, of Moultrie, Georgia.

608 E Broughton St

608 East Broughton Street

Circa 1906, this two-story frame house was built by Frank Jones, a banker from Blakely, Georgia, and Decatur County Historian. He wrote the extensively detailed, A History of Decatur County. This history tells the story of the region from Indian times to 1968. Valuable genealogical information is contained in accounts of early settlers, soldiers, and landowners; abstracts of the earliest marriage licenses, wills, and deeds; city officials of Bainbridge and surrounding towns; heads of families in the 1830 Census; tax digests and taxpayers of the 19th century; a long list of county officials; church pastors and members; members of organizations; and military companies, especially in the Civil War. The general history of the county also gives valuable information about residents and events. This book is a well-documented, carefully researched history with an abundance of both general and statistical information. In 1959, the home saw a kitchen remodel along with a three-story addition on the East end of the home which included a master bedroom, two bathrooms, den, and basement, designed by noted residential architect Frank McCall, of Moultrie, Georgia.

616 E Broughton St

This Federal style brick house was built by Juilian B. Kwilecki in 1917. History has it that he refused to share his plans for the house, as he wished it to be the only one in Bainbridge. The original “party house” is still located in the back. A tennis court once occupied the majority of the backyard, and although since removed, tennis balls are still routinely found in neighboring yards.

616 E Broughton St

616 East Broughton Street

This Federal style brick house was built by Juilian B. Kwilecki in 1917. History has it that he refused to share his plans for the house, as he wished it to be the only one in Bainbridge. The original “party house” is still located in the back. A tennis court once occupied the majority of the backyard, and although since removed, tennis balls are still routinely found in neighboring yards.

617 E Broughton St

This circa 1903 fine brick home was built in the Neoclassical style by Decatur County Sheriff Leroy F. Patterson using bricks made in his own brickyard, located across the river in West Bainbridge. This house remained in the same family from 1919 until 2015. It featured a detached root cellar and carriage house. After a period of disrepair, restoration began in 2017 by the new owners. Damaged again by Hurricane Michael, restoration progress resumed in 2019.

617 E Broughton St

617 East Broughton Street

This circa 1903 fine brick home was built in the Neoclassical style by Decatur County Sheriff Leroy F. Patterson using bricks made in his own brickyard, located across the river in West Bainbridge. This house remained in the same family from 1919 until 2015. It featured a detached root cellar and carriage house. After a period of disrepair, restoration began in 2017 by the new owners. Damaged again by Hurricane Michael, restoration progress resumed in 2019.

627 E Broughton St

Sheriff Leroy F. Patterson lived in this circa 1880 wood frame house in the early 1900s while he was building his new Neoclassical brick house next door. In later years, the house was divided up into apartments – note the second floor exterior door with no stairs on the east side of the home.

627 E Broughton St

627 East Broughton Street

Sheriff Leroy F. Patterson lived in this circa 1880 wood frame house in the early 1900s while he was building his new Neoclassical brick house next door. In later years, the house was divided up into apartments – note the second floor exterior door with no stairs on the east side of the home.

632 E Shotwell St

This circa 1898 massive Queen Anne Victorian was built by timber baron, Mr. Henry B. Ehrlich, who was born in Germany in 1849. He moved to Bainbridge in 1872 to take over the store of his brother, Abraham, who had died, and became a prominent businessman. Henry and his wife, Sarah, raised their family in this home and lived here until he died in 1929. Sarah lived here until the death of one of her sons in 1937, at which time she moved in with her son Julian and his wife. In 1898, Henry Ehrlich built the home on the site of a previous home that had been destroyed by a fire. The front door, several interior doors, and several of the nine fireplace mantels were saved from the original home and used in the new home. The home is balloon construction from plans designed by noted Victorian architect, George F. Barber, who also designed the Donalson house across the street and the Coleman house down the street. The home was the first in Bainbridge to be wired for electricity while it was being built, and it was also one of the first to have telephone service.

632 E Shotwell St

632 East Shotwell Street

This circa 1898 massive Queen Anne Victorian was built by timber baron, Mr. Henry B. Ehrlich, who was born in Germany in 1849. He moved to Bainbridge in 1872 to take over the store of his brother, Abraham, who had died, and became a prominent businessman. Henry and his wife, Sarah, raised their family in this home and lived here until he died in 1929. Sarah lived here until the death of one of her sons in 1937, at which time she moved in with her son Julian and his wife. In 1898, Henry Ehrlich built the home on the site of a previous home that had been destroyed by a fire. The front door, several interior doors, and several of the nine fireplace mantels were saved from the original home and used in the new home. The home is balloon construction from plans designed by noted Victorian architect, George F. Barber, who also designed the Donalson house across the street and the Coleman house down the street. The home was the first in Bainbridge to be wired for electricity while it was being built, and it was also one of the first to have telephone service.

525 E Shotwell St

This Queen Anne house was built in 1898 by John E. Donalson, for whom nearby Donalsonville, Georgia, is named. Donalson was in the timber business and provided hand-selected materials for this home, including floors of “clear pine,” meaning each board is free of knots and blemishes. It was the first home in Bainbridge to have wire screens over the windows. Over the years, the home was divided into apartments and several of the original Tiffany stained glass windows were removed and sold. The original carriage house is still located in the rear. This home is individually listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

525 E Shotwell St

525 East Shotwell Street

This Queen Anne house was built in 1898 by John E. Donalson, for whom nearby Donalsonville, Georgia, is named. Donalson was in the timber business and provided hand-selected materials for this home, including floors of “clear pine,” meaning each board is free of knots and blemishes. It was the first home in Bainbridge to have wire screens over the windows. Over the years, the home was divided into apartments and several of the original Tiffany stained glass windows were removed and sold. The original carriage house is still located in the rear. This home is individually listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

524 E Shotwell St

This Colonial Revival brick house was built by Dr. R. F. Wheat in 1925. It still retains the original wrought iron fence. Many historic homes had wrought iron fences, but they were donated to the war effort during World War II.

524 E Shotwell St

524 East Shotwell Street

This Colonial Revival brick house was built by Dr. R. F. Wheat in 1925. It still retains the original wrought iron fence. Many historic homes had wrought iron fences, but they were donated to the war effort during World War II.

519 E Shotwell St

This Tudor Revival house was built in 1906 by C.C. “Mart” Harrell, “the live clothing man,” with locally-made concrete blocks. Called “Mart,” thanks to owning a clothing store called “The Mart,” it went bankrupt in the 1890s. Sheriff Patterson (whose home was located a street over at 627 E. Broughton Street) auctioned the contents of The Mart off in 1896, which sold for $11,000 to the Belcher Brothers, who owned retail stores in both Bainbridge and nearby Quincy, Florida. This house, built ten years later, features a free-standing fireplace in a second-floor bedroom (there is no fireplace below). The rooms on the first floor are separated by fluted columns with carved capitals and large pocket doors.

519 E Shotwell St

519 East Shotwell Street

This Tudor Revival house was built in 1906 by C.C. “Mart” Harrell, “the live clothing man,” with locally-made concrete blocks. Called “Mart,” thanks to owning a clothing store called “The Mart,” it went bankrupt in the 1890s. Sheriff Patterson (whose home was located a street over at 627 E. Broughton Street) auctioned the contents of The Mart off in 1896, which sold for $11,000 to the Belcher Brothers, who owned retail stores in both Bainbridge and nearby Quincy, Florida. This house, built ten years later, features a free-standing fireplace in a second-floor bedroom (there is no fireplace below). The rooms on the first floor are separated by fluted columns with carved capitals and large pocket doors.

515 E Shotwell St

This Victorian-style house was built by James Ralph (J.R. Graves), a Bainbridge City Alderman who was also a deacon at First Presbyterian Church, sold fire insurance, ran the telegraph service, and self-professed “dealer in blank books, stationery, school books and school supplies.” Graves was also an Express Agent who brought the first ice to Bainbridge using bags of sawdust. The 3,800 square foot house originally sat on four acres and had a detached kitchen. It took two years to complete (in 1886) and cost $1,500.

515 E Shotwell St

515 East Shotwell Street

This Victorian-style house was built by James Ralph (J.R. Graves), a Bainbridge City Alderman who was also a deacon at First Presbyterian Church, sold fire insurance, ran the telegraph service, and self-professed “dealer in blank books, stationery, school books and school supplies.” Graves was also an Express Agent who brought the first ice to Bainbridge using bags of sawdust. The 3,800 square foot house originally sat on four acres and had a detached kitchen. It took two years to complete (in 1886) and cost $1,500.

505 E Shotwell St

John Brown, Editor of the Bainbridge Democrat (and 1908 candidate for State Senate for the 8th District of Georgia), built this frame house in the Transitional style in 1901. The property features a building in the back which was originally a barn. The barn was later reconfigured into a carriage house, then a kindergarten was operated out of it in the 1940s.

505 E Shotwell St

505 East Shotwell Street

John Brown, Editor of the Bainbridge Democrat (and 1908 candidate for State Senate for the 8th District of Georgia), built this frame house in the Transitional style in 1901. The property features a building in the back which was originally a barn. The barn was later reconfigured into a carriage house, then a kindergarten was operated out of it in the 1940s.

443 E Shotwell St

Built in 1900 by lumberman Charles H. Caldwell, this Dutch Colonial Revival house with its gambrel roof was dubbed the “Modernistic House,” because of innovations such as low ceilings (of only eleven feet in height), an in-house telephone system, and a servant call system. Note the beautiful beveled glass windows. In 1947, an elevator was installed by the owner and still exists today. Notice the original brick barn/carriage house in the back. Behind the barn is an empty lot, where, according to historical maps, the Bainbridge Foundry was located around the turn of the century.

443 E Shotwell St

443 East Shotwell Street

Built in 1900 by lumberman Charles H. Caldwell, this Dutch Colonial Revival house with its gambrel roof was dubbed the “Modernistic House,” because of innovations such as low ceilings (of only eleven feet in height), an in-house telephone system, and a servant call system. Note the beautiful beveled glass windows. In 1947, an elevator was installed by the owner and still exists today. Notice the original brick barn/carriage house in the back. Behind the barn is an empty lot, where, according to historical maps, the Bainbridge Foundry was located around the turn of the century.

442 E Shotwell St

This frame cottage was originally located “at the site of Dr. Alford’s hospital” according to a September 1922 article in the Post Searchlight, and moved to its current location in 1873 by Sam Hinds. The 1922 article states that it was over sixty years old at the time of that writing, which dates it to, at the latest, 1862. It features unique windows which are said to have originally been used in the first Episcopal Church in Bainbridge.

442 E Shotwell St

442 East Shotwell Street

This frame cottage was originally located “at the site of Dr. Alford’s hospital” according to a September 1922 article in the Post Searchlight, and moved to its current location in 1873 by Sam Hinds. The 1922 article states that it was over sixty years old at the time of that writing, which dates it to, at the latest, 1862. It features unique windows which are said to have originally been used in the first Episcopal Church in Bainbridge.

437 E Shotwell St

The lot on which this home was built sold for $500 in 1890 and was originally part of a farm. The frame house was built by George O. Smith and is a superb example of the Victorian architectural achievement and has been featured in books on the subject. In 1900, the house sold for $8,000, and then sold again in 1918. In later years, the home was unoccupied and fell into disrepair. In 1975, it was bequeathed to the Decatur County Historical Society in hopes that it would be used as a cultural and educational center. After remaining vacant for a number of years, the home was sold to a private individual, by whom it has been lovingly restored to its former grandeur. Notice the moon and star spire finial on top of the porch turret roof - my favorite detail.

437 E Shotwell St

437 East Shotwell Street

The lot on which this home was built sold for $500 in 1890 and was originally part of a farm. The frame house was built by George O. Smith and is a superb example of the Victorian architectural achievement and has been featured in books on the subject. In 1900, the house sold for $8,000, and then sold again in 1918. In later years, the home was unoccupied and fell into disrepair. In 1975, it was bequeathed to the Decatur County Historical Society in hopes that it would be used as a cultural and educational center. After remaining vacant for a number of years, the home was sold to a private individual, by whom it has been lovingly restored to its former grandeur. Notice the moon and star spire finial on top of the porch turret roof - my favorite detail.

420 E Shotwell St

This house was built by Mr. C. S. Hadden. It was originally located a block east on Shotwell Street at the corner of Monroe Street. In later years, it was moved to its present location. Note the unusual yellow brick construction. A duplicate of this house, of which Hadden copied the plans, is located at 506 E. Broughton Street.

420 E Shotwell St

420 East Shotwell Street

This house was built by Mr. C. S. Hadden. It was originally located a block east on Shotwell Street at the corner of Monroe Street. In later years, it was moved to its present location. Note the unusual yellow brick construction. A duplicate of this house, of which Hadden copied the plans, is located at 506 E. Broughton Street.

First Baptist Church

Local Baptists worshipped in the Methodist “Log House” until 1854, when the Missionary Baptist Church (now known as the First Baptist Church) built its first house of worship at the corner of East Shotwell and Clay Streets. It was a simple, unadorned building that faced Clay Street and was built by its members. When the church outgrew the building, it was sold at auction for $29.50 and moved outside of town. It is the oldest church in Decatur County, and the building still exists today as Mt. Zion AME Church. A new church was built on the site and completed in 1893. The present brick building was begun in 1916 and completed in 1920 in the Early Classical Revival style. Because of World War I, construction took four years to complete.

First Baptist Church

401 E Shotwell St

Local Baptists worshipped in the Methodist “Log House” until 1854, when the Missionary Baptist Church (now known as the First Baptist Church) built its first house of worship at the corner of East Shotwell and Clay Streets. It was a simple, unadorned building that faced Clay Street and was built by its members. When the church outgrew the building, it was sold at auction for $29.50 and moved outside of town. It is the oldest church in Decatur County, and the building still exists today as Mt. Zion AME Church. A new church was built on the site and completed in 1893. The present brick building was begun in 1916 and completed in 1920 in the Early Classical Revival style. Because of World War I, construction took four years to complete.

416 E Evans St

D. T. Mathis was the first known owner of this frame cottage, circa 1880. Notice the gingerbread trim. At one time, it was called the “Tumble Down House,” due to its fall into disrepair. It is now home to local artist Dargan Long, who also has his studio on East Water Street downtown.

416 E Evans St

416 East Evans Street

D. T. Mathis was the first known owner of this frame cottage, circa 1880. Notice the gingerbread trim. At one time, it was called the “Tumble Down House,” due to its fall into disrepair. It is now home to local artist Dargan Long, who also has his studio on East Water Street downtown.

313 E Evans St

Built by Charlie and Bessie Williams in 1908, this 7 room frame house was touted in the paper at the time as a “commodious dwelling.” After suffering from neglect and then partially destroyed by fallen trees during Hurricane Michael in 2018, your host, Natalie, and her business partner and friend, Banks, purchased the home and took the floor plan back to the original foundations. The two year project included a new addition which housed the kitchen, laundry and mud room, while also adding a master bathroom upstairs, and restored the original portion of the house to its former glory.

313 E Evans St

313 East Evans Street

Built by Charlie and Bessie Williams in 1908, this 7 room frame house was touted in the paper at the time as a “commodious dwelling.” After suffering from neglect and then partially destroyed by fallen trees during Hurricane Michael in 2018, your host, Natalie, and her business partner and friend, Banks, purchased the home and took the floor plan back to the original foundations. The two year project included a new addition which housed the kitchen, laundry and mud room, while also adding a master bathroom upstairs, and restored the original portion of the house to its former glory.

309 E Evans St

This vernacular cottage was constructed in 1905 by Judge H. B. Spooner, a circuit court judge for twenty years. A local pharmacist, Bertram Ehrlich, was a long-time owner of the house, and marble countertops from his drugstore were added around the fireplace in the living room.

309 E Evans St

309 East Evans Street

This vernacular cottage was constructed in 1905 by Judge H. B. Spooner, a circuit court judge for twenty years. A local pharmacist, Bertram Ehrlich, was a long-time owner of the house, and marble countertops from his drugstore were added around the fireplace in the living room.

214 E Evans St

Built in 1903 by Dr. Lynton D. Baggs, it was bought in 1907 by H. J. Maddox prior to his marriage to the daughter of next door neighbor, J.W. Callahan.

214 E Evans St

214 East Evans Street

Built in 1903 by Dr. Lynton D. Baggs, it was bought in 1907 by H. J. Maddox prior to his marriage to the daughter of next door neighbor, J.W. Callahan.

200 E Evans St

This magnificent house was built in 1907 by John W. Callahan, owner of a fleet of steamboats that navigated the area’s rivers and the largest individual naval stores operator in the world. He also served as a State Senator, State Representative, and was elected as the Mayor of Bainbridge numerous times. The Neoclassical Revival house was built to resemble a steamboat and features hand-painted murals throughout the interior. Notice the iron fence and the hexagonal stone sidewalk containing the name “J. W. Callahan.” This house is individually listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

200 E Evans St

200 East Evans Street

This magnificent house was built in 1907 by John W. Callahan, owner of a fleet of steamboats that navigated the area’s rivers and the largest individual naval stores operator in the world. He also served as a State Senator, State Representative, and was elected as the Mayor of Bainbridge numerous times. The Neoclassical Revival house was built to resemble a steamboat and features hand-painted murals throughout the interior. Notice the iron fence and the hexagonal stone sidewalk containing the name “J. W. Callahan.” This house is individually listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

110 E Evans St

Built in 1901 by Captain Joe S. Desvergers, this frame house was originally Queen Anne in style. It was significantly altered in 1940 by Captain Desvergers’ daughter in the Greek Revival style with the addition of the Neoclassical portico. You can still see the remnants of the Queen Anne style in the ornate front window and door, along with many other details, if you look closely.

110 E Evans St

110 East Evans Street

Built in 1901 by Captain Joe S. Desvergers, this frame house was originally Queen Anne in style. It was significantly altered in 1940 by Captain Desvergers’ daughter in the Greek Revival style with the addition of the Neoclassical portico. You can still see the remnants of the Queen Anne style in the ornate front window and door, along with many other details, if you look closely.

414 S Broad St

In 1878, an estimated fifty-three Jews lived in Bainbridge. Rosalie Ehrlich formed the first Sunday School class in 1900, and by 1909, Rabbi E.A. Landau was making regular visits from Albany to conduct religious services in the Elk’s Lodge. In 1914, the Women’s Temple Guild raised enough funds to purchased property at the corner of East Evans Street and South Broad Street. The Neoclassical Revival brick building was dedicated in December of 1916. In 1950, an addition was built that included an assembly room, kitchen, and two classrooms.

414 S Broad St

414 South Broad Street

In 1878, an estimated fifty-three Jews lived in Bainbridge. Rosalie Ehrlich formed the first Sunday School class in 1900, and by 1909, Rabbi E.A. Landau was making regular visits from Albany to conduct religious services in the Elk’s Lodge. In 1914, the Women’s Temple Guild raised enough funds to purchased property at the corner of East Evans Street and South Broad Street. The Neoclassical Revival brick building was dedicated in December of 1916. In 1950, an addition was built that included an assembly room, kitchen, and two classrooms.

328 S Broad St

The construction date and builder of this frame house are unknown, but it is believed that the front two rooms of the original structure are the oldest standing structure in Bainbridge. For a time, it housed the offices for the First Presbyterian Church.

328 S Broad St

328 South Broad Street

The construction date and builder of this frame house are unknown, but it is believed that the front two rooms of the original structure are the oldest standing structure in Bainbridge. For a time, it housed the offices for the First Presbyterian Church.

First Presbyterian Church

Around 1854, a church building was constructed at the intersection of South West and Troupe Streets. The building burned in 1874, but the Communion Serving Set and pulpit Bible were saved. In 1877, a new frame building was constructed at the intersection of South Broad and East Evans Streets. In 1900, a new, larger brick building was constructed at the intersection of East Shotwell and South Broad Streets. The Romanesque Revival building still contains the original wooden pews and stained glass windows. The pulpit and some furnishings were acquired when the nearby Climax Presbyterian Church merged with First Presbyterian. The original pipe organ was sold in 1955 but has since been replaced with an exact replica.

First Presbyterian Church

200 E Shotwell St

Around 1854, a church building was constructed at the intersection of South West and Troupe Streets. The building burned in 1874, but the Communion Serving Set and pulpit Bible were saved. In 1877, a new frame building was constructed at the intersection of South Broad and East Evans Streets. In 1900, a new, larger brick building was constructed at the intersection of East Shotwell and South Broad Streets. The Romanesque Revival building still contains the original wooden pews and stained glass windows. The pulpit and some furnishings were acquired when the nearby Climax Presbyterian Church merged with First Presbyterian. The original pipe organ was sold in 1955 but has since been replaced with an exact replica.

104 E Shotwell St

Thomas Cornelius Wainman was born a pauper in Pennsylvania and built a successful sawmill business, including a revolutionary type of saw. He became quite wealthy and was attracted to the virgin pine forests of Georgia. He relocated to the area in 1893 and purchased twenty-two thousand acres of pinelands. He constructed a mill and built eleven miles of logging railroad. By 1900, Wainman’s health began to decline and he sold his business. He decided to build a handsome four-story hotel at the intersection of Shotwell and Broad Streets, which is no longer standing. In 1904, he built this brick Romanesque Revival home for himself across the street. It may be of no surprise that the interior prominently features heart pine.

104 E Shotwell St

104 East Shotwell Street

Thomas Cornelius Wainman was born a pauper in Pennsylvania and built a successful sawmill business, including a revolutionary type of saw. He became quite wealthy and was attracted to the virgin pine forests of Georgia. He relocated to the area in 1893 and purchased twenty-two thousand acres of pinelands. He constructed a mill and built eleven miles of logging railroad. By 1900, Wainman’s health began to decline and he sold his business. He decided to build a handsome four-story hotel at the intersection of Shotwell and Broad Streets, which is no longer standing. In 1904, he built this brick Romanesque Revival home for himself across the street. It may be of no surprise that the interior prominently features heart pine.

722 S West St

Oliver Evans built this home in 1855. In 1857, he sold the Second Empire style house and an adjoining twenty-six and a half acres for $1,225. Two years later, the house and a smaller parcel of one and a half acres were sold for $2,150. The house sold again in 1863 for $4,000. Over the years, the property changed hands several more times. In 1992, the house was given to the First Presbyterian Church, and two years later it was sold to a private individual. It is rumored that there was once a family cemetery located on the property behind the house.

722 S West St

722 South West Street

Oliver Evans built this home in 1855. In 1857, he sold the Second Empire style house and an adjoining twenty-six and a half acres for $1,225. Two years later, the house and a smaller parcel of one and a half acres were sold for $2,150. The house sold again in 1863 for $4,000. Over the years, the property changed hands several more times. In 1992, the house was given to the First Presbyterian Church, and two years later it was sold to a private individual. It is rumored that there was once a family cemetery located on the property behind the house.

706 S West St

John S. Thomas built this two-story frame house in 1906 using virgin timber. It remained in the same family until the 1990s.

706 S West St

706 South West Street

John S. Thomas built this two-story frame house in 1906 using virgin timber. It remained in the same family until the 1990s.

622 S West St

This Victorian house was built in 1897 by E. J. Perry, a prominent businessman, and it was the first house in Bainbridge with an indoor toilet.

622 S West St

622 South West Street

This Victorian house was built in 1897 by E. J. Perry, a prominent businessman, and it was the first house in Bainbridge with an indoor toilet.

520 S West St

It is believed that John W. Callahan, owner of a fleet of steamboats and builder of the “Steamboat House” on Evans Street, built this home in 1907 for use as rental property. Over the years, the original front porch was altered and additions made to it. A duplicate of this house is also located at 314 Troupe Street.

520 S West St

520 South West Street

It is believed that John W. Callahan, owner of a fleet of steamboats and builder of the “Steamboat House” on Evans Street, built this home in 1907 for use as rental property. Over the years, the original front porch was altered and additions made to it. A duplicate of this house is also located at 314 Troupe Street.

400 Mc Nair St

This house was built in 1920 by Harvey Trawick and features a wraparound front porch.

400 Mc Nair St

400 Mc Nair Street

This house was built in 1920 by Harvey Trawick and features a wraparound front porch.

320 Washington St

The actual construction date and builder of this Georgian-style frame house is unknown, but it is believed that it predates the Civil War. It is now the Commodore Bed & Breakfast and can be booked on Airbnb as well! Just search for Commodore Bed and Breakfast in Bainbridge.

320 Washington St

320 Washington Street

The actual construction date and builder of this Georgian-style frame house is unknown, but it is believed that it predates the Civil War. It is now the Commodore Bed & Breakfast and can be booked on Airbnb as well! Just search for Commodore Bed and Breakfast in Bainbridge.

305 W Shotwell St

This Greek Revival frame house was built before the Civil War by Judge W. M. Harrell.

305 W Shotwell St

305 West Shotwell Street

This Greek Revival frame house was built before the Civil War by Judge W. M. Harrell.

315 W Shotwell St

In 1903, Dr. Gordon Chason purchased this Queen Anne frame house from the builder, M. W. Howard. It has remained in the same family ever since.

315 W Shotwell St

315 West Shotwell Street

In 1903, Dr. Gordon Chason purchased this Queen Anne frame house from the builder, M. W. Howard. It has remained in the same family ever since.

First United Methodist Church

The first church in this area was the Methodist “Log House,” built in 1823 and used by a variety of denominations. New church buildings were constructed in 1840 and again in 1854. In 1897, a brick church building was constructed, which contained a pipe organ and electricity. Unfortunately, this building was completely destroyed by fire in 1906. The present-day Romanesque Revival brick building was begun soon after on the same lot and was completed in 1908. Services are offered at 9 am and 11 am.

First United Methodist Church

300 W Shotwell St

The first church in this area was the Methodist “Log House,” built in 1823 and used by a variety of denominations. New church buildings were constructed in 1840 and again in 1854. In 1897, a brick church building was constructed, which contained a pipe organ and electricity. Unfortunately, this building was completely destroyed by fire in 1906. The present-day Romanesque Revival brick building was begun soon after on the same lot and was completed in 1908. Services are offered at 9 am and 11 am.

101 S Broad St

Bainbridge City Hall: This neoclassical building, with its temple-fronted design, is the most classical of all of the downtown buildings, combining marble and terra cotta in a Beaux Arts manner.

101 S Broad St

101 South Broad Street

Bainbridge City Hall: This neoclassical building, with its temple-fronted design, is the most classical of all of the downtown buildings, combining marble and terra cotta in a Beaux Arts manner.

Bainbridge Little Theatre

Constructed in 1908 by J.S. Shingler for Bowman Motor Company. It was the original site of the Bainbridge Pepsi Cola Bottling Company. The building was converted into a theater and opened in 1985. The Ruth Langston Garden is located behind the theater.

Bainbridge Little Theatre

220 E Troupe St

Constructed in 1908 by J.S. Shingler for Bowman Motor Company. It was the original site of the Bainbridge Pepsi Cola Bottling Company. The building was converted into a theater and opened in 1985. The Ruth Langston Garden is located behind the theater.

1036 Lake Douglas Rd

Also known as Greenwood Triangle, located where Lake Douglas Road and Tallahassee Highway meet. John Simmons, founder of local industry, Elberta Crate, built this house in 1917. He came to Bainbridge to bring the business to a Port city. The home has remained in the family, excepting only a brief 13 year period. Family lore tells that he wanted to purchase 617 E. Broughton Street, and a year before he moved he was told one price, and when he moved, he offered to pay that price, but the family had increased the price. He withdrew his offer and built his own home, which ended up costing significantly less than the cost of the other house on Broughton Street.

1036 Lake Douglas Rd

1036 Lake Douglas Road

Also known as Greenwood Triangle, located where Lake Douglas Road and Tallahassee Highway meet. John Simmons, founder of local industry, Elberta Crate, built this house in 1917. He came to Bainbridge to bring the business to a Port city. The home has remained in the family, excepting only a brief 13 year period. Family lore tells that he wanted to purchase 617 E. Broughton Street, and a year before he moved he was told one price, and when he moved, he offered to pay that price, but the family had increased the price. He withdrew his offer and built his own home, which ended up costing significantly less than the cost of the other house on Broughton Street.

Welcome to Downtown Bainbridge!

Places to Dine & Wine in Downtown Bainbridge

The American

Southern Philosophy Brewing

The Bean and Berry Cafe

Diablo's Southwest Grill Of Bainbridge

Bonnie Blue House

Things to Do in Downtown Bainbridge

Premier Group Realty

Mad Rose Furniture, Antiques, Gifts

Sharon House Antiques, Gifts & Interiors

Firehouse Center & Gallery

Flint River Outfitters

In the Garden

Earle May Boat Basin Park

J. Christine Esthetique

Willis Park

Decatur County Historical and Genealogical Society Museum

Historic Downtown Bainbridge

116 W Water St

300 E Water St

418 E Broughton St

506 E Broughton St

507 E Broughton St

St John's Episcopal Church

608 E Broughton St

616 E Broughton St

617 E Broughton St

627 E Broughton St

632 E Shotwell St

525 E Shotwell St

524 E Shotwell St

519 E Shotwell St

515 E Shotwell St

505 E Shotwell St

443 E Shotwell St

442 E Shotwell St

437 E Shotwell St

420 E Shotwell St

First Baptist Church

416 E Evans St

313 E Evans St

309 E Evans St

214 E Evans St

200 E Evans St

110 E Evans St

414 S Broad St

328 S Broad St

First Presbyterian Church

104 E Shotwell St

722 S West St

706 S West St

622 S West St

520 S West St

400 Mc Nair St

320 Washington St

305 W Shotwell St

315 W Shotwell St

First United Methodist Church

101 S Broad St

Bainbridge Little Theatre

1036 Lake Douglas Rd