About Haynie's Corner
Haynie’s Corner Arts District is a unique neighborhood gem. With its history, diversity, and vibrancy, the corner is filled with life, music, culture and fun. Having the city’s only arts district designation, Haynie’s Corner is an attractive destination hosting family friendly and over 21 events throughout the year. Incorporated as a not-for-profit in 2015, a group of neighborhood volunteers, work to preserve the corner’s legacy, promote art, support artists, host events and create a true sense of community.
George Haynie
George Washington Haynie (1857-1939) was a prominent citizen of Evansville. He was born in Newburgh, Indiana and moved to Evansville with his parents when he was 11. At 15 he began working at Main Street Prescription Drug and then at 30 years old, opened his own drugstore. He worked at Haynie’s Drugstore until he retired in 1928. Upon his retirement, The Evansville Courier noted, “His cheery greeting, smile, and never ailing courtesy made him one of the best loved men Evansville ever knew. He really has been, for years, an Evansville institution.” He affectionately became known as the “Mayor of Goosetown” after geese nested in area sloughs and even had his own day when on May 19th, 1937, it was declared as Haynie Day.
Haynie's Drug Store
Haynie Drugstore was located at the junction of Southeast Second and Adams streets, now a grassy area between the Alhambra Theater and 2nd street, now home to our many events. Not only was this building where Mr. Haynie worked, he also made this his family home here. The drugstore was a three-story structure that stood out as a landmark, featuring a soda fountain, which was favorite gathering spot for many. Sadly, it was damaged by a flood in the 1930’s and eventually lost to a fire in 1944.
Haynie's Corner Today
Today, the corner has seen a resurgence thanks to the work of dedicated volunteers and neighbors who truly understand the value of neighborhood development and the uniqueness of this spot. The area features restaurants, pubs, art galleries, renovated luxury apartments and distinctive shops. Surrounded by family homes and apartments for young adults, the corner is often filled with people and dogs walking, sitting or enjoying a quick jump in the landmark fountain on a hot day. On many days, there is an event happening at the corner that makes it come alive. You can actually feel Mr. Haynie smiling as he watches all the action.
Haynie's Corner Arts District Association
A group of volunteers came together in 2011 to form a board and organize around shared values hoping to promote art and enhance and the neighborhood. Creating a mission, developing bylaws, and establishing an executive committee along with formal board members allowed the group to established itself as a 501c3 in 2015. Working to support the neighborhood’s needs, develop and support art and artists while featuring local businesses is the goal. Using events to further this goal and increase visibility, the group meets monthly and is now focused on ways to make an even bigger and lasting impact to the community.
Our Mission
Want to Be Involved?
Haynie’s Corner Arts District is supported by its residents, neighbors, business owners, sponsors and community partners. Varied levels of volunteer and sponsoring opportunities are available. Get involved while making great friends and enjoying this unique neighborhood.