Historic Byhalia Revitalization Projects

History: The center part of the building was designed by William Charles Lester and built by Dr. P. L. Fite & H.G. Brooks in 1921.  This portion of the building is well detailed with millwork, pre-cast concrete ornamentation, and fairly elaborate brick work with a classic 3-part composition. In 1951, north and south wings designed by E.L. Malvaney and built by Z.B. Whisenant were added to create a 5-part composition.

The Town of Byhalia purchased the old Byhalia High School property in the early 2000’s. The property was named the Old School Commons (OSC) and, along with the Walking Trail, was intended to be the Hub for the Town and Main Street.  Over the years, some $400,000 in grant money  has been obtained and used to replace the roof and windows, add restrooms on the lower level, and to install HVAC in auditorium area. The building was designated as a Mississippi Historic Landmark on October 12, 2006, and recorded in Book Volume 369, Page 708 on November 3, 2006.

Goal: The Old School Commons, along with the Walking Trail, is intended to be the Hub for the Town and Main Street. Proposed usage for the building include a performing arts center, community center, business incubator space, senior citizen center, event venue and potentially a commercial kitchen. A Feasibility Plan is currently in the works by Belinda Stewart Architects and Renovations of MS, Inc.