Our History
Founded in 1878, Oak Hill Academy has a long and proud history. Our school is rooted in tradition, inspired by our community in Mouth of Wilson and our deep connection to the Blue Ridge. Together with our commitment to academic enrichment and dynamic growth, our heritage has fostered a safe and nurturing “home away from home” for our students for generations.
History
How it all Began
In the mid-1800s, members of small Baptist churches in Ashe County, North Carolina, and Grayson County, Virginia, envisioned a place of learning for the children of the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountain Region.
Our Baptist Affiliation
In 1873, the New River Baptist Association of Virginia voted to establish Oak Hill Academy, and in the fall of 1878, Oak Hill held its first session. Traditional hallmarks of the school have remained intact throughout the generations: co-educational, boarding, Baptist-affiliated, mission-focused, and uniquely diverse.
Oak Hill Leadership
With such a rich heritage, Oak Hill Academy has experienced many phases of leadership and association. In the mid-twentieth century, the local public school system and different sections of the Baptist Convention concurrently operated the academy. Our school is now governed by an independent board of trustees and bestowed accreditation from state and nationally recognized associations.
True to our roots
Today, our students arrive at the rolling acres of Oak Hill from across the country and around the world. But tucked away in the quiets of the Blue Ridge, our beautiful campus and the intentionality of our school’s program continue along the visionary path our Oak Hill Academy founders established all those years ago.
The Spirit of Oak Hill
And while much has changed since 1878—from new buildings, modern technology, and the contemporary learning methods that inform our daily operations—at its core, the spirit of Oak Hill Academy remains intact. Administration, faculty, and staff members will forever partner together on our life-affecting mission on “The Hill,” where your potential becomes possible.
