History:
The French Art Colony was born in 1964 to fill a void in the community. It continues to be a major force in the arts. With education as its primary goal, school children are frequently targeted, however arts for all ages is the overall aim for this multi-arts center at 530 First Avenue.

By 1970, members were traveling the alleys looking for a garage or old warehouse as a potential home for the growing agency. There were 65 members and even a little money in the bank. Hopes were high and in September, Dr. Thaler approached Dr. Charles Holzer, Jr., then on the Board of the Commercial and Savings Bank, "to see whether a bank like the 'C & S' would agree to finance the French Art Colony." When questioned, Dr. Thaler explained the need for larger space. Dr. Holzer's mother, Alma, had died in July and his first question was, "What about my Mother's house?" This was certainly a major step above a greasy garage and resulted in a lengthy discussion in the Thaler household that evening. It was finally decided to present the idea to the Board at a special meeting. Reactions varied from high enthusiasm to serious doubt that the amount of money needed could be raised. 

After much deliberation, the Board decided to proceed and a strategy was defined. The first step was to convince the community that this was a proper site for an art center. Three experts were brought in from the State Architects office, the Dayton Art Institute, and the OAC, all of whom concurred with our site and strategy. We determined expenses, planned a budget and ways to meet it, and began working on a house we did not own. Simultaneously, incorporation and non-profit status was achieved. Having done our homework, the capital campaign began in the spring of 1971. Three year  pledges were sought for a total of $77,500. Volunteers renovated the house and we were able to burn the mortgage two years later.

Over the years, the FAC has remained a vital part of the community. The accomplishments are many including development of the Gallipolis City Flag, the O.O. McIntyre County Park logo, the Festival Exhibit competition, the Very Special Arts program for special needs children, the Holzer Medical Center collection, and numerous arts programs. It has been a host site for  the Governor, the Ohio Supreme Court, various other dignitaries, tourist groups, and potential candidates for business and industry. The FAC is "one of those things that just can't happen" in such a small town and remains one of the reasons why Gallia County is the brightest star on the Ohio River.