Brick Store, Greenbackville, VA

Brick Store Neighborhood Overview

Overview

Brick Store is the historic heart of Greenbackville, a small, unincorporated village on Virginia's remote Eastern Shore in Accomack County. The neighborhood derives its name from a prominent late-19th century general store built from brick, a rare and substantial construction material for the area at the time, which served as a commercial and social hub for the bustling seafood-packing community. Today, Brick Store is less a formal subdivision and more the central, defining district of Greenbackville, embodying the quiet, water-centric character of this coastal village located just inland from Chincoteague Bay.

The neighborhood's character is defined by its rich history tied to the oyster and clam industries, its serene setting along marshes and tidal creeks, and its tight-knit, resilient community. Located roughly 90 minutes north of the Virginia Beach-Norfolk metro area, Greenbackville feels worlds apart, offering a peaceful, slow-paced lifestyle deeply connected to the rhythms of the coastal environment. The architecture in Brick Store is a mix of historic homes from the village's late-1800s boom era, modest mid-century dwellings, and newer constructions, all set along streets that often lead to the water.

Housing & Real Estate

The housing stock in the Brick Store area is eclectic, reflecting the village's long history. It includes Victorian-era homes and vernacular cottages built for watermen and packing plant workers, alongside ranchers and manufactured homes from the mid-20th century. In recent years, there has been an increase in modern, elevated construction designed to withstand flooding, featuring views of the marshes and creeks. Properties with direct water access or clear waterviews command a significant premium.

Price ranges are generally moderate for a coastal location, typically spanning from the low $200,000s for smaller, fixer-upper cottages to over $500,000 for newer, custom-built homes with docks and sweeping views. The market is primarily owner-occupied, with a notable segment of vacation or second-home buyers attracted by the boating, fishing, and tranquil setting. The rental market is limited, consisting mostly of long-term single-family homes. Recent trends show steady interest from buyers seeking affordability and waterfront access compared to pricier, more developed areas like Chincoteague Island.

Schools & Education

As part of Accomack County, Brick Store is served by the Accomack County Public Schools system. Students typically attend Greenbackville Elementary School, which is a cornerstone of the local community, followed by Arcadia Middle and High School located in Oak Hall, roughly a 15-20 minute drive away. The schools are generally small, rural institutions that emphasize community involvement and personalized attention.

The district faces the challenges common to many rural educational systems, including funding limitations, but benefits from strong ties between schools, families, and local organizations. For higher education, the Eastern Shore Community College in Melfa provides associate degrees and workforce training. The unique coastal environment also serves as an informal educational resource, with local students often deeply knowledgeable about marine ecology, boating, and the region's seafood industry heritage.

Parks & Recreation

Recreation in Brick Store is inherently tied to its aquatic surroundings. The neighborhood provides direct access to the intricate waterways of Chincoteague Bay, making boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing the primary outdoor activities. Several community boat ramps and small marinas serve local watermen and recreational boaters alike. The area is a gateway to the vast, protected marshes that are ideal for birdwatching and exploring by small craft.

While there are no large, formal parks within Greenbackville itself, residents are a short drive from world-class natural attractions. The Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge and Assateague Island National Seashore, famous for their wild ponies, pristine beaches, and hiking trails, are approximately a 30-minute drive south. Closer by, the quiet country roads are popular for bicycling and walking, offering flat terrain and picturesque views of farmland meeting the marsh.

Local Dining & Shopping

Commercial options in Brick Store and immediate Greenbackville are limited and charmingly old-school, reflecting the village's scale. The historic Brick Store building itself may no longer operate as a general store, but the area's needs are met by a few essential local businesses. Dining tends to be casual and seafood-focused, with a popular local restaurant or two known for fresh clams, oysters, and crab cakes, often operating with seasonal hours.

For broader shopping and grocery needs, residents typically drive to nearby towns. The town of Chincoteague (15-20 minutes south) offers a wider array of restaurants, gift shops, galleries, and a well-stocked supermarket. For big-box retailers, home improvement stores, and more diverse shopping, many residents make the trip to Pocomoke City, Maryland (about 25 minutes north), or to Onley and Onancock on the Virginia shore. The local economy still has a strong base in commercial fishing and clamming.

Who Lives Here

The population of Brick Store is a blend of multi-generational locals, many with deep family roots in the seafood industry, and newer arrivals drawn by the affordable waterfront lifestyle. The community is characterized by self-reliance, a strong connection to the water, and a neighborly spirit where people know and look out for one another. It attracts individuals and families who prioritize tranquility, natural beauty, and a slower pace over urban conveniences and nightlife.

Residents include retired watermen, remote workers, artists seeking inspiration in the coastal

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