Pride Holdings Group Acquires Historic Club One in Savannah, Preserving LGBTQ+ Landmark

Pride Holdings Group has acquired Club One, one of Savannah's most iconic nightlife destinations and a cornerstone of the city's LGBTQ+ community. The acquisition marks a significant expansion for the hospitality company and represents a commitment to preserving an institution that has shaped Savannah's cultural identity for over three decades.

Club One has been celebrated since 1988 for its vibrant atmosphere, world-class drag performances, and unwavering commitment to inclusion. The venue gained international fame through legendary entertainer The Lady Chablis, whose memoir Hiding My Candy and unforgettable role in the bestseller Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil placed a spotlight on the club, establishing it as a cultural beacon representing courage, creativity, and authenticity.

This acquisition matters because it demonstrates how corporate investment can intersect with cultural preservation. As LGBTQ+ spaces face increasing economic pressures nationwide, the protection of historically significant venues becomes crucial for maintaining community identity and history. Club One has served as more than just an entertainment venue—it has functioned as a safe space, community center, and cultural landmark for generations of LGBTQ+ individuals and allies.

Michael Barrett, CEO of Pride Holdings Group, emphasized the cultural significance of the acquisition, stating that Club One is not just a club but a landmark of LGBTQ+ history. The company plans to preserve the club's legacy while introducing fresh experiences for the next generation of guests. This approach balances historical preservation with forward-looking innovation, ensuring the venue remains relevant while honoring its past.

Under new ownership, Club One will continue to showcase its legendary drag performances and signature events while introducing new programming, upgraded amenities, and expanded community outreach initiatives. Guests can expect the same spirit of joy, laughter, and inclusivity that has defined the venue since its establishment. The transition is effective immediately, with Club One operating under the Pride Holdings Group banner and enhancements scheduled to roll out later this year.

Dr. Albert "Bart" Whitehead, Chair of Pride Holdings Group, highlighted the club's community-building role, noting that Club One has brought together countless people over the years while breaking barriers. The commitment to honoring this history ensures its impact will continue for decades to come, serving as a model for how businesses can responsibly steward cultural institutions.

The acquisition represents Pride Holdings Group's broader strategy as described on their website at https://www.prideholdingsgroup.com. The company positions itself as the premier LGBTQ+ hospitality and cultural rollup, focusing on acquiring high-value properties while setting global standards for inclusive hospitality. This acquisition demonstrates how corporate growth can align with cultural preservation, creating sustainable business models that benefit both shareholders and communities.

For the hospitality industry, this transaction signals a growing recognition of the economic value in culturally significant LGBTQ+ venues. As these spaces face challenges from urban development and changing economic conditions, strategic acquisitions by companies committed to preservation offer a potential pathway for maintaining these important community assets. The successful integration of Club One into Pride Holdings Group's portfolio could serve as a blueprint for similar preservation efforts nationwide.