The Fly Arts Center stands firmly with our nonprofit partner, The Gilliland Historical Resource Center. Such a deeply painful moment for our community.
As the only African-American Cultural Arts Center in Shelbyville and Bedford County, the Gilliland House is a priceless piece of our shared heritage. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, it safeguards stories, artifacts, photographs, and historical treasures that honor the lives and contributions of Tennessee’s African-American community.
On November 18, this sacred landmark was hatefully vandalized, causing thousands of dollars in damage. Artifacts were destroyed, windows shattered, display cases ruined, and parts of the building severely harmed. This act was not only an attack on a structure—it was an attack on history, on culture, and on a community treasure that belongs to all of us.
Now, more than ever, the Gilliland House needs our help.
We are calling on our friends, neighbors, partners, and all who value history and unity to stand with us. Every donation—large or small—helps restore damaged artifacts, replace windows and display cases, and repair the historic spaces that hold generations of stories.
How You Can Help
Your gift will directly support:
Restoration and repair of damaged artifacts
Replacement of shattered windows and broken display units
Structural repairs resulting from the vandalism
Preservation of Tennessee’s African-American history for future generations
Why It Matters
When one nonprofit suffers, our whole community feels the loss. And when one nonprofit is lifted up, we rise together.
The Gilliland House has spent years preserving voices and stories that might otherwise be forgotten. Today, we have the chance—and the responsibility—to make sure their work continues.
Join Us in Restoring Hope
If you are able, please consider making a donation to support the rebuilding of this extraordinary landmark.
Your generosity will help ensure that the legacy of the Gilliland Historical Resource Center remains strong, vibrant, and protected.
Together, we can repair the damage, restore what was lost, and reaffirm that history matters — all history.