Our Story
The Holyoke Creative Arts Center (HCAC) has a rich history that dates back to 1917, when it began as an emergency food program during World War I. Initially distributing meals through a soup kitchen, the organization quickly expanded its mission to include daycare services and educational programs for women whose husbands had been drafted. By 1926, it formally incorporated as the Holyoke Home Information Center, moving into the historic Maplewood Hotel building, where it began teaching essential home arts such as furniture refinishing, rug making, and sewing.
For over 70 years, the Center operated as a county extension program, serving the community's needs until the dissolution of County government in 1998. In 1999, it rebranded as the Holyoke Creative Arts Center and relocated to the South Street Plaza, continuing its evolution as an art school under the auspices of Holyoke Community College. However, in 2002, significant state budget cuts led to the elimination of all state funding, prompting HCAC to become an independent nonprofit organization in 2003.
Today, HCAC thrives in the historic Mill City complex in West Springfield, offering a spacious 3,300 square foot studio for a variety of classes and workshops, including upholstery, chair caning, and decorative arts.