About OBI

Oneida Baptist Institute opened its doors January 1st, 1900 as a school for children of the mountains of Eastern Kentucky. OBI was the vision of Professor James Anderson Burns, a converted feudist who believed that the Christian Gospel and education were the answers to the cycle of violence between families in the mountains. God blessed Burns' vision and the school was established and prospered. We continue to have a vital mission to the children of Eastern Kentucky.

Through the years, mountain boarding schools found their mission increasingly difficult. Public schools became available and financial support became a challenge. While most other mountain schools closed, OBI survived this era, but saw many difficult days. God preserved our school with many demonstrations of his providence and guidance. Along the way, OBI became part of the Kentucky Baptist Convention family and began enrolling international students.

In the early 1970's Dr. Barkley Moore became President of Oneida. A six year veteran of the Peace Corps in Iran and a person with unusual energy and passion for OBI, Dr. Moore recast Oneida's vision. Under his leadership, OBI became a school of new beginnings for students all over America and the world. Believing in the unlimited potential of every boy and girl who came to Oneida, Dr. Moore expanded Oneida's program, support and facilities. By the time of his death in 1994, Oneida had multiplied in size and finances several times over. We continue to look to Dr. Moore's example every day that we work, believing that Oneida holds a unique place in God's kingdom.

Today Oneida is a unique school. We combine the values of a traditional Christian school with openness to non-Christians and students with all kinds of needs and backgrounds. OBI is diverse in cultures, but rich in the tolerance and respect for differences modeled by Jesus Christ. Oneida staff live and work as part of a Christian community carrying out the original mission of education and evangelism. We are grateful for our heritage and always mindful that the God who brought us this far will see us through.

Education for Time and Eternity