The Pie Factory: A Triumph of Inclusive Historic Preservation in Downtown Lawrenceburg
Rebekah Michael (The Pie Factory Manger), Roy Story, Rebecca Story, Ben Allen & Randy “Lightning” Allen pictured enjoying the ADA bar top at The Pie Factory in Downtown Lawrenceburg, TN.
Historic Renovation of The Pie Factory Brings Inclusive Preservation to Downtown Lawrenceburg
In a heartwarming tribute to both history and community, the renovation of The Pie Factory in Downtown Lawrenceburg stands as a testament to the power of inclusive preservation. Located at 8 & 9 Public Square, this iconic space has been lovingly restored by local investor group Ann Allison, blending historic charm with modern accessibility, ensuring that everyone can enjoy its offerings.
Inspired by a visit in 2021 to the historic Don CeSar in St. Pete Beach, the Story Family—owners and designers of Ann Allison Ventures—saw firsthand how inclusivity and preservation could go hand in hand. One feature that particularly captured their attention was the ADA-accessible bar top, a simple yet impactful element that made the experience more enjoyable for everyone. It sparked thoughts of how friends and family—fathers and sons, grandparents, and more—could come together to enjoy a cocktail, a meal, or even a ballgame. This experience fueled their vision for the future of historic buildings in Lawrenceburg.
“When The Pie Factory chose Downtown Lawrenceburg for their first Tennessee location, we shared our vision, and we knew the potential for greatness was just around the corner,” said Rebecca Story of Ann Allison Ventures. The historic structures, long awaiting a revival, had found the perfect custodians to breathe new life into them.
At the heart of this project is Randy Allen, affectionately known as "Lightning" to those close to him. Randy, a devoted father and beloved grandad, saw the vision come full circle when he brought his son to lunch at The Pie Factory. The sight of Randy sharing a meal with his son epitomizes what this project is all about: creating spaces where memories are made and relationships are strengthened, all within a setting that honors its past.
"Bringing The Pie Factory to life in Downtown Lawrenceburg was truly a community effort," said the Story Family. Indeed, the collaboration of many—from Downtown Lawrenceburg, the City of Lawrenceburg, the dedicated patience of LUS, and countless others—was instrumental in making this dream a reality. A special acknowledgment must also go to James Hickman and Hickman Construction, whose hard work and dedication made the vision for The Pie Factory possible. Hickman Construction’s expertise ensured the careful blending of modern amenities with the historical integrity of the buildings.
A key piece of the puzzle was the support from the Tennessee Economic & Community Development. Their belief in the potential of this project led to Ann Allison Ventures receiving the Tennessee Historic Development Grants in 2021, which allowed the renovation to take shape. The Pie Factory now stands as a proud example of not just historic preservation but also inclusive placemaking.
This project exemplifies how historic preservation doesn’t have to mean exclusion. With thoughtful planning, spaces can be made accessible to all, allowing everyone to engage with and enjoy the history that makes our downtown so special. The Pie Factory in Lawrenceburg is more than just a restaurant—it’s a symbol of how past and present can seamlessly come together to create a vibrant, inclusive future for our community.
Downtown Lawrenceburg’s ongoing commitment to revitalization and preservation shines brightly through efforts like this, proving that with collaboration and vision, historic buildings can be more than relics—they can become the heartbeats of our modern lives.