Above: The description for this photograph, taken in May 1938, reads, 'August, Ga. - The Casino - Julian Smith Park - built by the WPA is used by the community for group entertainments.' Note the WPA sign near the middle of the building. Photo courtesy of the National Archives.

Above: A closer look at the WPA sign from the previous photo.

Above: The Julian Smith Casino today. The building is not a gambling casino, but instead utilizes a more general definition of the word 'casino,' to indicate a social gathering place. According to the Augusta Chronicle newspaper, the building has hosted many events, including a 'rehearsal by the Godfather of Soul, James Brown, high school dances and countless first meetings of couples who remain married to this day' ('Building preserves memories,' April 6, 2006). Photo courtesy of the Augusta city government.

(WRDW/WAGT) - Four places in the Garden City have made it onto Historic Augusta’s 2021 endangered properties list: The Julian Smith Casino, 2200 Broad St. Julian Smith Casino, named after a former Augusta mayor, was added in 1936. The park was the place to go before the coming of Strom Thurmond Lake.

Above: WPA workers constructing the Julian Smith Casino, September, 1936. Julian Smith was a mayor of Augusta, Georgia in the 1920s. Photo courtesy of the National Archives.

Above: WPA workers building a stage in the Julian Smith Casino, September, 1936. Photo courtesy of the National Archives.

Overlooking Lake Olmstead, the Julian Smith Casino offers spacious parking and a flexible catering options.

Facility Info

Meeting Rooms

DescriptionJulian Smith Casino is nestled between southern magnolia and pine trees right next to Lake Olmstead. Julian Smith Casino is the ideal place for a beautiful wedding reception or any other special event. The main hall of the facility has heart of pine hardwood flooring as well as palladium windows that open out towards the lake.
Largest Room6000
Total Sq. Ft.6000
Reception Capacity600
Space NotesFacility is rented through Augusta Recreation and Parks.
Theatre Capacity350
Banquet Capacity350
Number of Rooms1
Classroom Capacity350

Julian Casino Augusta Ga

Julian Smith Casino

Julian Smith Casino Augusta Georgia

Total Sq. Ft.: 6000
Width: 90
Length: 45
Theater Capacity: 350
Classroom Capacity: 350
Banquet Capacity: 350
Reception Capacity: 600

Julian Casino Augusta Georgia