Honoring the Past, Investing in the Future: Gilmer Chamber Acquires Watkins House

The Gilmer Chamber is excited and honored to announce the purchase of the historic Watkins house, a treasured part of Gilmer County’s history and a familiar place of welcome for residents and visitors alike. In 2019, the Chamber began operating the Downtown Welcome Center in the Watkins House, it has always been our desire to own and restore this historic property.

After the purchase is complete, the Watkins House will continue to serve as a welcome center for visitors to Gilmer County, providing a warm first impression of our community while connecting guests with our local businesses, attractions, events, and unique mountain heritage. The building will also provide office space for Chamber Staff.

The Chamber plans to invest in thoughtful upgrades and improvements that will ensure the building can continue serving our community for many years to come. At the same time, we are committed to preserving and honoring the historic significance, architectural character, and charm that make the Watkins House so special.

All pertinent information regarding the acquisition of the Watkins House from the Board of Commissioners was considered by the Chamber Board of Directors and was further reviewed by the legal departments representing each entity. We are grateful for their expertise in ensuring all applicable local, state, and federal laws and ordinances were followed.

The Gilmer Chamber sees this acquisition as more than an investment in a building. It is an investment in Gilmer County’s history, our tourism industry, our local businesses, and demonstrates our commitment to the community.

We are grateful for the opportunity to be the next steward of the Watkins House and look forward to building on its legacy as the place where visitors are welcomed, our community is celebrated, and the story of Gilmer County is shared.