Welcome to Old Pecan Factory !
We’re thrilled to share a space where creativity can flourish—offering opportunities for people of all ages to explore a wide range of art mediums and craft projects. Art has always inspired hope, and we believe it continues to uplift individuals and communities alike.
That’s why we chose a location with a story worth telling.
Old Pecan Factory is more than just a building—it’s a place rooted in resilience, craftsmanship, and community. According to the Sanborn maps (1885-1950) dating as far back as 1885 the building began as a planing mill, then grew to house a machine shop (@1895), and later a blacksmith shop by 1903.
According to an interview conducted by the Federal Writers’ Project in the late 1930s along with excerpts from The History of Barbour County, Alabama by Mattie Thomas Thompson (1939) we learned soon after the Civil War, Gus Askew began his journey as a blacksmith working alongside Joe Sturges at his blacksmith shop on Randolph Avenue near First Baptist Church. Around 1929 this blacksmith shop was converted to a plumber’s shop. Gus stated, “Joe was the first blacksmith and I was the second”, later handing the trade down to his son.
Gus, born into slavery, found opportunity in freedom after the war—working as a blacksmith for 70 years. From his earnings, he was able to buy a home and land, laying down roots for future generations.
Years later, this location (Old Pecan Factory) became a working pecan factory. During pecan season, employees from the cotton mill would take on extra shifts to supplement their income. In the aftermath of the Great Depression, this community stood out for its resilience and generosity. These families worked not only for their own children’s future, but for the well-being of their neighbors, too.
Inspired by that same spirit, we—Miriam and Randy—hope Old Pecan Factory will be our way of honoring the past while investing in the future. We’re proud to offer a space where creativity, history, and community come together.
Warm Regards, Miriam