Mission Statement
The mission of Hitchcock Academy is to enrich the lives of area residents of all ages by providing educational, recreational and cultural programming for residents from the towns of Brimfield, Holland, Wales, Sturbridge and the surrounding communities.
A Brief History
After leaving his home in Brimfield in 1812 at the age of 18 and with one borrowed dollar in his pocket, Samuel Austin Hitchcock went out to the world to seek his fortune. He later retired to his birthplace, a wealthy man. He always desired an education but his family was too poor to afford one when he was a child. With the support of many friends and numerous generous townspeople, Hitchcock Free Academy was founded in 1855.
Mr. Samuel Austin Hitchcock's original idea was to give a sum of money to establish and maintain a school, with the provision that the townspeople match his gift.
Mr. Hitchcock stipulated that education at this school would be free and would help students prepare for the "business of life".
With the opening of Tantasqua Regional High School in 1954, the future of Hitchcock Free Academy was in question. By court decree, Hitchcock Free Academy became a Community Center to provide educational, recreational and cultural programs.
Although the Academy primarily serves residents of Brimfield, Holland, Wales and Sturbridge, everyone is welcome to participate in our programs.