Historic Onancock School in Onancock, VA is a registered 501 c(3) non-profit organization. What was once Onancock High School has now been revitalized as a place where we honor the memories and history while continuing on as a vibrant community and cultural center serving Virginia’s Eastern Shore residents and visitors. Onancock High School opened in 1921 and the last class graduated in 1984. Fast forward to 2007, when the non-profit organization, Friends of Onancock School, formed an agreement with the Town of Onancock to lease to building and begin the restoration process. To learn more about the history of the remarkable building, visit the History page.

Today, classrooms are now studio spaces filled with creative artists, makers, entrepreneurs, clubs, nonprofits, a museum and a gym. Please check our Tenant Directory for individual schedules or to make appointments. Our 14 acres of outdoor green space is a hub of activity including a playground, picnic area, nature trail, Creekside observation deck, soccer field, disc golf course, Performance Pavilion, and open space for exercising dogs and their humans. We also provide two large events spaces, The Gallery as well as The Pavilion can be rented as a place for classes, meetings, programs, civic and social events, art openings and music. They are a favorite venue for private rentals such as weddings, showers, birthdays and family gatherings.

Want to support us on our journey?

Our Values

Our values are the principles that guide our decisions and behavior. They include the following:

• Community Engagement: Creating opportunities for shared cultural, recreational, educational, and artistic experiences that strengthen social bonds.

• Cultural Heritage and Preservation: Honoring the past while making it relevant for future generations.

• Inclusivity and Diversity: Embracing all backgrounds and voices to build a sense of belonging and cultural richness.

• Creativity and Expression: Fostering artistic exploration and innovation to inspire and connect our community.

• Education and Lifelong Learning: Supporting personal growth and understanding through arts, recreation, education and cultural programs.

• Collaboration and Partnership: Working together with other organizations, government officials, and community members to create lasting community impact.

• Inspiration and Innovation: Balancing tradition with forward-thinking ideas to keep our

  cultural center dynamic and evolving.

Our vision is to be the welcoming heart (or hub) of a vibrant and connected community where heritage and diverse traditions are honored, identities are strengthened, and all people —locals and newcomers—across generations are united, inspired, and engaged, through continued development of the facility and diverse program offerings.