Accomac Debtors’ Prison to Celebrate Grand Reopening on July 4

The historic Accomac Debtors’ Prison will officially reopen to the public on Saturday, July 4, 2026, following a comprehensive restoration funded by the Commonwealth of Virginia and Accomack County.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony will begin at 11 a.m., led by Accomack County Supervisor Robert S. Crockett. Special guests are expected to include Virginia Del. Rob Bloxom and noted local historian and educator Dennis Custis.

Following the ceremony, visitors will have the opportunity to tour the newly restored building. To ensure safety, children must be accompanied by an adult while inside the prison.

Each visitor will receive a complimentary copy of the newly revised Accomac Debtors’ Prison brochure, which highlights the building’s nearly 250-year history and recent restoration. Although artifacts are not yet on display, the restored structure offers a rare opportunity to visit one of only three surviving debtors’ prisons in the United States listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The Debtors’ Prison will be open July 4 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. The building will also reopen in September 2026 for a special Fall Tour featuring volunteer docents and an exhibit of period antiques and historical collections.

The grand reopening is one of several events planned during Accomac’s Independence Day celebration. Visitors are encouraged to begin the day with the Accomac Parade at 10 a.m., enjoy Court Green Popsicles at 10:30 a.m., attend a special program at St. James Church featuring Dennis Custis and Kellee Blake beginning at noon, and support the annual barbecue fundraiser at Drummondtown Baptist Church.

Friends of Accomac welcomes residents and visitors to celebrate this important milestone in preserving Accomack County’s history. The public is invited to spend the day in historic Accomac, tour the restored Accomac Debtors’ Prison, and enjoy Independence Day activities throughout the community.

For additional information about the Accomac Debtors’ Prison, upcoming tour dates, and the complete schedule of July 4 activities, visit www.accomac.org.