County of Northampton

Historical Marker WY 2 Site of Tidewater Institute (1907-1935) found on Cobb Station Rd in Northampton County, VA
Photo credit: Jean E Flynn

Location: Cobbs Station Rd., Cheriton, VA.

WY2 Site of Tidewater Institute (1907 - 1935) 

Inscription: Tidewater Institute was incorporated in 1903 with the stated purpose of establishing an industrial, academic, collegiate, and seminary boarding school for the education of black youth. Founded by the Rev. George E. Reid, and supported by the Northampton/Accomack Baptist Association, the institute attracted students from both Virginia and other Atlantic seaboard states. For twenty-eight years, the school was dedicated to the education and molding of lives of young black men and women of Virginia's Eastern Shore.

-Department of Historic Resources 1986

Tidewater Institute was founded in 1903 as a secondary boarding school for African American children. The school then expanded its curriculum to include high school and several lower grades, attracting students from all over Virginia and other Atlantic seaboard states. It was awarded full academic, industrial, collegiate and seminary teaching status. Tidewater Institute’s mission was to “help improve the industrial, intellectual, moral, and religious condition of black youth on the Eastern Shore of Virginia… {and} to prepare young men and women for life’s duties, inculcate the spirit of service and inspire them to lead noble lives.”
-From the "Tidewater and Cobb Station" exhibit displayed in the 1899 Courthouse that also serves as part of the Northampton County administration building. Pictures courtesy of The Eastern Shore Educator

Tidewater Institute teachers (front row) with their students, ca. 1917. Part of the historical display in the Northampton County administration building. Pictures courtesy of The Eastern Shore Educator. 

Learn more about the Tidewater Institute on the Landmarks Trail page.