Deeply rooted in the cultural fabric of Ocracoke Island, the Commons is a bridge between the past, present and future. It is a gathering place for locals and visitors alike. And the Ocracoke community has come together to make this happen, in every possible way. 

The Odd Fellows Lodge, located in the center of the village, has been a central piece of the village's social fabric for over 100 years and is on the National Register of Historic Places. Built in 1901, the building has served many uses: the first school on the island, Navy Officer's Club during WWII and a community gathering place for social events before becoming a hotel and restaurant.  Hurricane Dorian underscored the importance of preserving this historic treasure.  OPS purchased the property to salvage this piece of our history in 2018. 

The Commons garden took shape beginning in 2023, providing a gathering spot and a place of respite where locals and visitors may rest, picnic and orient to the island.  The first floor of The Lodge will be a much-needed Visitor’s Center for the thousands of people who come to Ocracoke each year. The second floor houses office and meeting space.