Presented by
Pajcic & Pajcic
On Friday, May 1, 2026, more than 230 guests gathered at the Jacksonville History Center to mark the 125th anniversary of the Great Fire of 1901 — and to celebrate the spirit of renewal that has defined Jacksonville ever since.
Guests enjoyed cocktails and a VIP reception before the program began at 6:45 p.m. with welcome remarks, a message from the Mayor, and the presentation of the evening’s two awards. A low country boil followed, with dessert, dancing, and live music from The Groove Coalition Band carrying the celebration through to 9:30 p.m.
Honorees
The Rebuilder Award was presented to JWB Real Estate Capital in recognition of preservation and redevelopment efforts that carry forward the spirit of renewal that shaped Jacksonville after the Great Fire of 1901.
The Keeper of the Flame Award was presented to Wayne Wood in recognition of his dedication to local history and his lifelong commitment to keeping Jacksonville’s stories alive for future generations.
The Great Fire Film Experience
Thanks to the generosity of our community, the Jacksonville History Center raised significant funds during the event to support the Great Fire Film Experience — an immersive, cinematic retelling of the 1901 fire that will bring this pivotal moment in Jacksonville’s history to life.
This experience is being developed as part of the History Center’s new museum galleries, allowing residents and visitors alike to witness the fire and the remarkable spirit of renewal that shaped our city.
There is still time to help bring this experience to life. Donors who contribute $100 or more will be recognized on a plaque inside the new museum gallery. Click the button below to support this effort.
Thank You
With heartfelt thanks to the sponsors whose generosity made the inaugural Great Fire Gathering — and the work it supports — possible.
Title Sponsor
Heritage Sponsors
Legacy Keeper Sponsors
Preserver Sponsors
Storyteller Sponsors
In-Kind Sponsors
The Great Fire Gathering is supported by a grant from the Delores Barr Weaver Forever Event Fund, est. 2015.