Today, Secretary of State Cord Byrd announced the designation of Eau Gallie Arts District in Melbourne, Brevard County, as the Florida Main Street Program of the Month for October 2024. This recognition highlights the district's efforts in historic preservation and creative innovation.
"Eau Gallie Arts District is a testament to how historic preservation and creative innovation can come together to transform a community," stated Secretary Byrd. "With a commitment to fostering the arts, EGAD Main Street has worked to ensure that the district remains a cultural beacon while also preserving its rich history."
The Eau Gallie Arts District (EGAD) has a significant historical background. The area was first settled by John Carroll Houston IV in 1859. Originally known as Arlington, it was renamed Eau Gallie by William Henry Gleason in 1860 due to the coquina rocks along the Indian River Lagoon.
Eau Gallie's development accelerated with the arrival of the Florida East Coast Railroad in 1893, shifting from an agricultural settlement to a diverse community. The establishment of Eau Gallie High School in 1924 marked further growth. After World War II, residential expansion continued until Melbourne annexed Eau Gallie in 1969. Preservation efforts began in the 1990s, leading to its evolution into a cultural hub.
In recent years, revitalization initiatives such as establishing the Eau Gallie Community Redevelopment Area and its designation as a Waterfronts Florida Partnership community have transformed it into an arts destination. The EGAD Main Street program has been crucial since its launch in 2010, attracting investments and creating jobs through various projects.
"We are honored to receive this recognition as Florida Main Street Program of the Month," said Kathie Elías, Executive Director of Eau Gallie Arts District Main Street. “Our community is a testament to the power of collaboration, creativity, and a shared vision."
For more information on Eau Gallie Arts District Main Street or Florida Main Street program details can be found on their respective websites or social media platforms.