A Life For Liberty
Explore the rich cultural heritage of Holley Graded School through our exhibit, collections, and black history museum.
About Holley Graded School
Our History
The Holley Graded School, established as a school for freedpeople in 1868 and settled on its current property in 1869, has a long and vital history on Virginia's Northern Neck. Established as a National Historic Site and Virginia Historic Landmark in 1996, the Holley School continues as a community center and museum site. We invite you to learn more on these pages about the school and its history as well as its current role in the community - and to become an active participant in its preservation!
Our Collections
We have preserved original furniture and artwork used in the time of the 1800"s
Our Mission
“Our mission is to preserve the historic HOLLEY GRADED SCHOOL, documents it's historyAND provide community service”
Holley Graded School Today
In the present day, Holley School continues as a center of adult learning. Many in the community joined forces to establish the Holley Graded School as a historic site. They raised money and received a matching grant for restoration. The building was placed on the list of National Register of Historic Places and was designated a Virginia Historic Landmark and National Historic Site. These days, Holley School continues to have an educational role in the community, as its continued presence serves to remind and educate passersby of a history not so long past. The current board of trustees continues the work of preserving the school and its history and legacy and has established a restored classroom as a record of what black education was like here under segregation. The schoolhouse also continues as a center for black culture, as other rooms at the school are used for a wide variety of community gatherings. You are invited to join the board and school alumni in preserving this important icon of American history.
Join Us
Help Our Cause
Your support and contributions will help us to meet our goals and fund our mission of keeping Holley Graded School a part of black history.
Meet the man behind the lens
Our Image Curator
At Holley Graded School, we honor our rich heritage and the profound impact of our history. We are proud to introduce Mr. Clifton Muse, more affectionly known as " Clif'',our passionate in-house image curator. With a deep commitment to preserving and celebrating the legacy of our school, He curates powerful visuals that reflect the resilience, achievements, and vibrant culture of our community.
Mr. Clif Muse meticulously selects images that tell the stories of our past and present, showcasing the contributions of our students, alumni, and educators. Through his work, we aim to honor our history while inspiring future generations.
Join us in celebrating the stories and traditions that define Holley Graded school 1869 through the lens of Mr. Clif Muse !
Meet the Board of Directors
Harold " Peter" Blackwell - President
Wayne Hooper- Vice President
Wayne Hooper- Vice President
Wayne Hooper- Vice President
Wayne Hooper- Vice President
Wayne Hooper- Vice President
Stafford Conley - Secretary
Wayne Hooper- Vice President
Stafford Conley - Secretary
David Rollins - Chairman of the Board of Trustees
Garfield Parker- Director of Affairs and Events
David Rollins - Chairman of the Board of Trustees
Desyree Hooper- Treasurer
Garfield Parker- Director of Affairs and Events
David Rollins - Chairman of the Board of Trustees
Garfield Parker- Director of Affairs and Events
Garfield Parker- Director of Affairs and Events
Garfield Parker- Director of Affairs and Events
