By Shannon Sneed
The Eatonton Messenger
May 4, 2025

What was once a storage unit for Putnam County’s cash crop has been turned into an elegant venue for private and community events, and a festive crowd gathered at the Eatonton Cotton Warehouse April 28 to help Stewart Aaron celebrate the grand opening of the unique entertainment hall.

Aaron said he really appreciated everyone who contributed to the project, including partners Dan Lowery and Duncan Criscoe, as well as those like Holly Lindsey and Stephanie Brookins who continue to promote an exciting future for the warehouse and downtown area.

Noting he was “looking forward to all the events already planned,” Aaron called out several guests in the crowd who helped bring his dream to fruition, including Jennifer Rainey, who was instrumental in getting live music to the Cotton Warehouse.

Catered by downtown Eatonton’s Spicy Southern, visitors enjoyed live music by Ronnie Pittman. Eatonton’s Bruce Cooper, aka DJ Bruce Wonder, who Aaron called “a disc jockey friend of ours,” was also on hand to entertain the guests who had access to an open bar.

Constructed in 1902, the building was formerly used for local farmers to store bales of cotton awaiting transport by railway. Completing a vision Aaron and wife Beverly had for the building, recent renovations include the addition of a catering kitchen, wine and beer bar and restrooms.

Located at the City Center facing North Jefferson Avenue, the Eatonton Cotton Warehouse took on a massive transformation.

During reconstruction, the original hardwood floors were taken up, flipped and refurbished, then resealed. The addition of elegant chandelier lighting casts a radiant glow upon the now-shiny flooring and brick walls.

With accommodations for more than 600 guests, dining tables are scattered throughout the main room and an entertainment area complete with stage and sound system makes room for dancing to music presented by live bands and disc jockey. Access to an outdoor stage provides space for open air events.