AS IF frozen in time, John Ruskin’s words ring true as you take in the elegant brick cornices and window arches that accentuate the character of Shelbyville’s town square storefronts. The embellishments, remnants of the 19th century, adorn the storefronts as if guarding the memories of generations past. These architectural details, crafted with the utmost care, bear witness to the ever-changing flow of life in this timeless setting.
Yet, these buildings are more than just pretty facades, fulfilling practical duties as steadfastly today as when the doors opened to the lively town square over a century ago. Imagine the stories these walls could whisper if only they could speak — tales of those who have passed through, their laughter and chatter mingling with the scent of freshly brewed coffee from the corner cafe and the clink of glasses at the local watering hole. Each window frame is a portal and silent witness to life’s ebb and flow.
With the building’s past etched into every brick and floorboard, Jeb House envisions a future where these same walls will continue to foster community in a new way. He aims to preserve the building’s architectural heritage while transforming it into a must-visit destination for those seeking an authentic taste of Shelbyville’s hospitality and heritage. In an age where social media allows us to share our stories like never before, his vision for Glass Hollow Table & Tavern is to create a space where fellowship and good times are celebrated and preserved for generations to come.
“From an early age, I have always loved exploring buildings, architecture, and real estate. I have two passions for Glass Hollow. The first has been to renovate our 42,000-square-foot complex by preserving and reviving its historical aspects. We’ve put much time and effort into this regard, and I believe it will truly be showcased once we are finished,” Jeb stated.
The renovations make room for new memories to be etched into the very fabric of the building, layering the stories of the present upon the foundations of the past. As the venerable structure is carefully restored, its walls seem to whisper with anticipation, eager to welcome a new era of fellowship and connection.
“My second passion is to create a thriving business in my hometown. I want to build something our folks can be proud of,” he explained. “Our goal is to be that special place you want to bring your friends and family from out of town to have a great meal coupled with that distinct essence of Southern hospitality that can only come from a group of people that treat each other as family.”
Jeb’s entrepreneurial spirit is rooted in family.
He shared, “Some of my earliest dreams and aspirations were to own my own business. [For] most of my childhood and adolescence, my parents were business owners. It’s a lifestyle I’ve always known. My mom’s father and grandfather were also entrepreneurs and have had a large influence on me as well. My great-grandfather started a company called ‘Sweet Sue,’ which became famous for its canned products. They sold the company to Sara Lee, the famous bread company, but you can still find Sweet Sue products on the shelves at grocery stores today.”
Despite obstacles along the way, Jeb, who co-owns Glass Hollow with his mom, Chavigny Beasley, never loses sight of his vision for the project.
He said, “Once you have the dream, I think the big secret to fulfilling it is just to get busy doing it. Planning goes a long way to prepare for any setbacks that small business owners are bound to face as they get started, but the key for me is to keep your nose to the grindstone and figure it out as you go. It takes a certain mindset to smile and pivot as hardships come your way. My relationship with Christ has certainly been strengthened through this process. There’s a plan for your life, and it will all work out as it is supposed to, but you’ll never know until you take that leap of faith and get started in whichever direction you choose.”
Glass Hollow Table & Tavern is a labor of love. Jeb focuses on restoring the timeless building’s architectural details while transforming it into a vibrant space that will write the next chapter in the lives of those who pass through its doors. His vision for the property extends far beyond the restaurant’s walls, encompassing a dream to create a faith-led and community-focused business.
With a steadfast belief in his mission and a commitment to Southern hospitality, Jeb is pouring his heart and soul into bringing Glass Hollow Table & Tavern to life. The building will welcome a new ear of culinary excellence to Shelbyville’s charming town square.
As the walls whisper their approval, they eagerly anticipate the laughter, chatter, and clink of glasses soon filling the air, creating lasting memories for generations to come. GN
