A Glimpse into Augusta’s Forgotten Gem

At the pinnacle of Water Street in Augusta, just when the street decides to curve like it’s trying to dodge responsibility, sits a century-old edifice. This charming relic is the type of building one might stroll past, entirely oblivious to its quiet history. Much like that aunt who shows up at family gatherings, this architectural marvel has stories to tell—if only walls could talk, they’d probably ask for better tenants.

For decades, this once-vibrant hub provided a mélange of retail spaces, office suites, and apartments—kind of like a Swiss Army knife, but if the knife was made of brick and had a penchant for retail. Nestled at one end was a venue perfect for culinary endeavors, bar escapades, or a full-grade nightclub, ideally suited for those late-night escapades fueled by questionable decisions and 2-for-1 drink specials.

In fact, this space has donned many party hats over the years. Some might even label it “legendary” after classes in hyperbole, as a few iconic nightlife spots—well, “iconic” in the way that one remembers high school prom—once called it home. The most recent tenant, Shenanigans, first opened its doors in 2012, quickly becoming a beacon for the young and the restless. Weekend DJ mixes blended hip hop, reggae, Latin beats, and EDM—a true all-you-can-eat buffet for the ears, garnished with plastic cups and a chorus of frat-boy laughter.

But alas, every fairy tale must have its tragic twist! The nightclub closed its doors after their New Year’s Eve bash in December 2017. What was presumed to be a temporary hiatus—like a jogger who promises just one more lap—ultimately turned into a permanent intermission. Spoiler alert: it never reopened. Rumor has it they wanted to redecorate, but what really needed renovation was the neighborhood’s hopes.

Shenanigans was merely the latest occupant in this ever-changing space at 341-347 Water Street. Prior to its tenure, the site was also known as:
– On The Rocks
– Club Liquid
– Delia’s
– Hazel Greens
Let’s take a moment to reminisce—how many of those bars do you recall? Are we forgetting any delightful dives? Share your fond memories with us on social media; nostalgia is definitely trending!

Fast forward to now, and the building is owned by none other than Matt and Heather Pouliot. They’ve been busy giving this historical landmark a facelift—both inside and out—unleashing a wave of apartments so beautiful that they’d make even the most hardened critics weep. The retail spaces are now a vision of modernity, probably leaving that once-legendary nightclub shaking in its dusty boots.

As of 2023, it seems like they might transform the old Shenanigans haunt into an event center that can house 240 people—a grand palatial option for wedding receptions, corporate trapeze performances, or community potlucks gone rogue. You can find more about Matt’s portfolio on the Pouliot Real Estate website, where you might even find that dream property you didn’t know you were looking for—or at least a few amusing real estate metaphors!