Rod and Brenda Matthews earn Main Street Hero Award for Bellehouse Venue
MADISON – Bellehouse Venue at 4097 Sullivan St. in downtown Madison received the “Main Street Hero Award” at Main Street Alabama’s Summit of Excellence held in Enterprise.
Owners of Bellehouse are longtime residents Rod and Brenda Matthews. They have beautifully restored the historical venue that has become a true cornerstone of the Main Street Madison district.
Main Street Madison, a 501(c)6 organization, is dedicated to the revitalization of historic downtown Madison. (mainstreetmadison. org) The office address is 14 Short St.
Main Street Madison works closely with Madison Visionary Partners, along with the City of Madison, local business owners and community partners to ensure long-term vitality and economic strength of downtown Madison.
Beyond hosting corporate meetings and weddings, Bellehouse has played an integral role in supporting Main Street Madison. In 2025 alone, the Matthews contributed more than $10,500 in in-kind venue donations, such as hosting designation planning, 4 Point Training, monthly board meetings and Resource Team week.
The Matthews’ hospitality shines in every detail, according to mainstreetmadison.org. For example, weather changed the site for the “Pet Pics with Santa” fundraiser for Madison Animal Rescue Foundation or MARF. With little advance notice, the Matthews volunteered to host at Bellehouse and move the event indoors.
The Matthews also have provided Bellehouse space and a golf cart for VIP tours with Leadership Greater Huntsville, which helped in building strong community relationships and in fostering economic vitality.
The Matthews’ hands-on dedication extends directly into leadership. Brenda serves as Vice Chair of the Main Street Madison Board. Rod chairs the Economic Vitality Committee.
Main Street Madison expressed appreciation to Rod and Brenda Matthews for their incredible generosity, partnership and heart for downtown Madison.
For more information about Bellehouse, call 256-203-4262, email events@bellehouse256.com or visit bellehouse256.com.
