Located minutes from Downtown Dublin, the Emery Thomas Auditorium offers a unique blend of historic significance and modern functionality. With 4,000 square feet of main floor meeting and event space, it’s an ideal location for gatherings of up to 280 people. The auditorium provides a one-of-a-kind setting for creating unforgettable memories, and is proudly managed by the City of Dublin.
Venue Amenities
- 32-foot stage with curtain
- Warming kitchen equipped with an ice machine, refrigerator, microwave, 72” workspace, three-compartment sink, and two warming/proofing cabinets
- Tables and chairs: 250 chairs, 25 five-foot round tables, and 10 six-foot rectangular tables
- Loading dock for convenient access
Rates & Reservations
- Daily Rental Fee: $750
- Golf Tournament Use: $250
- Reservation Deposit: $250 (non-refundable, credited toward the total rental fee)
- Full payment due 14 days prior to the event
For additional rental information click HERE.
A Legacy
Edging the Riverview Golf Course, Emery Thomas Auditorium holds a rich history as the last remaining building from the Dublin 4-H Center, the first and only 4-H camp exclusively for African American youth in Georgia. Established in 1939, the camp provided a venue for demonstration events, state congresses, and recreation in a segregated era. The auditorium, constructed in 1957, served as a central assembly hall for the camp.
Named for Emery C. Thomas, Laurens County’s first African American Extension agent and Dublin’s first African American City Council members, the auditorium reflects a legacy of leadership and community impact.
After the integration of 4-H programs in 1964, the Dublin 4-H Center’s ownership reverted to the Dublin Chamber of Commerce in 1968. In 2022, Emery Thomas Auditorium was listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and today stands as a symbol of perseverance and community history. A recent 2024 renovation ensures the building continues to serve as a thriving event venue while preserving its historical significance.
