The Tilden Arts Center was built in 1976 as part of an expansion to the Cape Cod Community College campus. In 1991, it was named for W. Culver Tilden, who retired from a career in taxidermy in Palmyra, NY to Eastham with his wife Gretchen. According to records, Tilden was a gentle and private man who was often seen on campus in a bright red sport coat and Scottish plaid cap. Over the years, the venue has served as a cultural hub for the arts with a long and respected history of presenting and producing artistic works by local, regional and international artists. In addition to serving as a venue for touring shows, local dance companies, speakers and lecturers, the Center is also a learning laboratory for the Performing Arts students at Cape Cod Community College. With two performance spaces, two functional art studios, music practice rooms and the Higgins Art Gallery, it serves the community year-round with activities and programming for all ages.