The KMJ Law building at 994 Main Street in Roanoke was built from 1919 to 1921 by W.H. Knight. Upon completion of the “bank” in 1921, Mr. Knight sold the building to R.J. Hooton. Two years later R.J transferred ownership to Paul Hooton and the Hooton family of lawyers owned the building until 1993. Though etched in stone above the entryway the building never housed the “First National Bank”. Merchants and Farmers Bank, City Bank and Trust, and Sheppards Jewelry were all occupants of the first floor over the years.
Kesa purchased the building in 2010 and painstakingly saved the building in 2015 after a 1 year revitalization effort with help by locals Guy Baker, Jeffrey Baker, Kyle Baker, Tommy Hendon, Dewayne Garrett, Freddy Brown and many many more. 994 Main Street Street houses work by various Roanoke and Southeast Artists including Catie Radney from Alex City, Atlanta Native Sally King Benedict, Rockford Artist Lynthia Edwards, Wedowee resident Corinne Cox, and one of Kesa’s best friends, Chris Mitchum.
The Wedowee Office opened in 2025 to expand services to KMJ Law’s clients in Northern Randolph County as well as surrounding areas. The Firm conducts a great number of real estate closings and therefore wanted a location that would be closer to Lake Wedowee. The office proudly displays local artists including Tom Scott, Russell Emrick, Keith Benefield, Lee Mapp, various Rock Mills potters and Sheree Waller Sorrell. Kesa and her partner Shaun Saunders are avid art collectors who have tried to preserve as much local art as possible.
Community Involvement
See how the community is doing their part and learn how students at Handley High School are doing more to preserve the cultural history of Roanoke, Alabama.
Connect with the I Love Roanoke Facebook page for more news, information, and upcoming events.
