It all started in 1955 when Mrs. Tom Brooks (Louise) conveyed the land to the Gulf Area Garden Club and Fort Walton Beach Woman’s Club; but it wasn’t until August 4th 1974 when the existing building had their grand opening, according to the Greater Fort Walton Beach Chamber of Commerce. 

The Brooks Beal Center was named in honor of Mrs. James Hartley Beal (Fannie Snyder) and Louise Brooks.

“Our community will be forever grateful to both the Brooks and Beal Families as well as other community advocates who underwrote much of the original debt for the building that exists today,” wrote the Chamber in a press release. 

The Brooks Beal Center has served as the home of the FWB Women’s Club for over 45 years and has been available for every type of event imaginable. 

Now, The Greater Fort Walton Beach Chamber of Commerce has joined forces with the General Federation of Women’s Clubs (GFWC) Fort Walton Beach Woman’s Club, Inc on the ownership of the building. 

According to the Chamber, Kacy Turpin Interiors handled the entire concept development and interior design that included construction oversight, lighting, color/material selection, furniture and window treatments. 

“The transformation is incredible,” said Ted Corcoran, President/CEO, Fort Walton Beach Chamber of Commerce. “Kacy worked with all of the contractors for a seamless process.  We absolutely could not have achieved what we have without her.” 

THE PLACE ON BEAL aims to be a truly unique event facility, and one of the only upscale locations in south Okaloosa County where bringing in your own food and beverages is an option. 

“With its amazing central location at the intersection of Beal Parkway and Yacht Club, THE PLACE is a perfect location for a holiday party, wedding reception, birthday party or business meeting,” continued Corcoran.

And if you don’t want to bring in your own food and drinks, The Greater Fort Walton Beach Chamber of Commerce also has a listing of preferred caterers who can make your job of planning an event even easier. 

For additional information or rental rates, please contact Director of Special Events Rachelle Graves at 850-244-8191.