Demosthenian Hall, University of Georgia
Demosthenian Hall, built in 1824, is the fourth oldest building on the University of Georgia’s campus and serves as the headquarters for the Demosthenian Literary Society. It has been a continuous meeting place for the Society, even serving as the Union Army’s headquarters during the Civil War. A rare example of early Federal architecture, it features original flooring, six fireplaces, and a stunning Adam-style plaster medallion. Preservation has been guided by the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards, with major restorations in the 1980s, 1990s, and most recently in 2024 ahead of the Hall’s bicentennial. Funded largely by student and alumni efforts, and supported by UGA, these projects have preserved both interior and exterior features, from the original color scheme and layout to carefully restored structural elements. Despite the challenges of student-led stewardship, for 200 years the Society has upheld the Hall’s historic character with impressive care.
Excellence in Stewardship Awards recognize those who ensure the preservation of historic properties through long-term care and maintenance, stabilization, protection or continuous family ownership.
