Historic building reopens as event center
Staff writer
A landmark building in Hillsboro has a new purpose. Newly renovated, The House opened Jan. 7.
As an events center, the House is meant to offering a space for events, celebrations, and group activities.
The building was constructed in 1880 and believed to be the oldest standing structure in Hillsboro. According to owner Eric Driggers, it has been part of the town’s commercial identity for generations.
Area residents may remember it most recently as Olde Town Restaurant, but the building has housed numerous businesses throughout its long history.
“We wanted to restore the building in a way that would serve Hillsboro again,” Driggers said. “The idea was to create a place where people can gather for all kinds of activities — birthdays, graduations, showers, catered meals, you name it.”
The renovated space includes a full kitchen, three bathrooms, and multiple rooms of varying sizes, allowing flexibility for groups large and small.
The House reflects both the building’s warm, homey feel and its role as a shared space for the community.
“We want it to feel like a welcoming place,” Driggers said. “A house is where people come together, and that’s what this building is meant to be.”
Most of the renovations were paid for by two grants totaling $370,000. The interior was updated extensively while preserving the structure’s historic character, Driggers said.
Along with private rentals, The House already is the site for several ongoing public activities. A church meets there Sunday evenings, and the building serves as a gathering place for community prayer throughout the week.
Future public events are in the works.
“My hope is that people in Hillsboro and Marion County will see this as a place that belongs to all of us,” he said. “I want it to strengthen our sense of community and give people another reason to connect.”
Driggers hopes to partner with organizations and residents to bring more community activities into the space.
Interest has been strong, he said, and he expects the House to quickly become the spot for local events.
“I’m excited to see how people use it,” he said. “It’s been a long project, but I think the community is going to benefit from it for years to come.”
The House is at 126 N. Main St.