Renovation work is nearing completion at the former Davidson Memorial Methodist Church at 710 Jefferson Boulevard in Lafayette’s Sterling Grove Historic District.
The historic property is being transformed into The Wilyard, a new wedding and event venue led by Cameron Theyard, Nicole Theyard, and property owner Ravi Daggula.
Current as of March 17th
Provided Renderings
First posted in 2024, the project is now in its final stretch. Most of the major electrical, plumbing, mechanical, and structural work has been completed, with the remaining work focused on paint, flooring, fixtures, doors, bathrooms, and other finish-out details.
Because the project is being completed under historic preservation guidelines tied to state and federal historic tax credits, much of the building’s original character has to remain intact or be restored as closely as possible. That includes exterior materials, stained glass, shiplap walls, trim, and other architectural details. In some cases, variances were needed when exact materials could not be sourced.
Current as of March 17th
Ai-generated rendering (final appearance subject to change)
Inside, the building has been stripped down and rebuilt around its original structure. Original wood floors remain beneath the carpet and are expected to be sanded and restained. Shiplap walls are being repaired rather than replaced in many areas, and original stained-glass windows are being preserved where possible, including the building’s amber-toned depression-era glass.
The renovation has also revealed how well the building was originally constructed. According to the project team, the foundation has shifted only about half an inch over roughly 80 years. The roof has been replaced, insulation has been added, and multiple HVAC systems have been installed to support modern event use.
Current as of March 17th
Ai-generated rendering (final appearance subject to change)
Plans for the property include a restored chapel-style event space, cocktail bar area, courtyard, catering support space, bridal-ready areas, and updated restrooms. Part of the adjacent building is also being prepared for Cameron Theyard’s office and studio operations, including space for photography, media, and creative content work.
The broader property also includes future retail potential, with developers hoping to add a coffee shop or similar light-service concept to help create regular foot traffic beyond private events.
That larger vision is part of what makes the project notable. In addition to bringing a new venue to North Lafayette, The Wilyard could also help support continued revitalization in this part of the city by reactivating a long-standing historic property with regular public-facing use.
Current as of March 17th
Provided Renderings
As previously posted, the chapel was originally built in 1941 by an all-Black battalion at Camp Claiborne near Alexandria during World War II. After the war, it was relocated to Lafayette around 1947 and became Davidson Memorial Methodist Church, later serving other congregations before becoming vacant.
Now, with renovation costs expected to approach roughly $1 million, the project team is working toward opening in the coming weeks. Based on current progress, part of the site may be ready for office occupancy first, with the main venue to follow after final finish work is complete.
For project updates, follow @camerontheyard and @thewilyardvenue on social media. You can also visit https://thewilyard.com/.
Current as of March 17th
Ai-generated rendering (final appearance subject to change)
