A National Treasure Hidden in Plain Sight
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Located in the heart of Downtown Wytheville, Virginia, the Edith Bolling Wilson Birthplace Museum—also known as the Bolling Building—is the childhood home of First Lady Edith Bolling (Galt) Wilson, wife of President Woodrow Wilson, who served from 1915 to 1921. This historic structure is the oldest remaining brick commercial building in Downtown Wytheville and a rare example of layered architectural and cultural history.

Built in the mid-19th century, the building is architecturally unique. It features three interconnected two-story units with two front-gabled wings flanking a central, shed-roofed section all unified by a distinctive brick parapet. This parapet, designed to appear as a third story, includes regularly spaced false windows once fitted with louvered shutters, intended to give the building a more “urban” presence. From 1866 to 1899, the second floor served as the Bolling Family’s residence, where Edith spent her formative years.

The street-level storefronts have hosted a variety of local businesses over time, including a bank in the 1840s, a general store, restaurant, a barber shop, and dance studio. It is believed that during the Civil War, the building may have served as a Confederate hospital. Today, it remains a vibrant part of Wytheville’s Main Street, home to beloved local institutions including Skeeter’s World Famous Hot Dogs, The Grind Coffee Shop, and the Edith Bolling Wilson Birthplace Museum.

The museum presents the compelling story of Edith Bolling Wilson—often referred to as “The Secret President”—through engaging exhibits, family artifacts, and educational programming. It is one of only eight historic sites in the United States dedicated to interpreting the life and legacy of a First Lady, and one of only two presidential sites located on a Main Street.

Designated as part of the Wytheville Historic District on the National Register of Historic Places (1994), the Bolling Building was recognized by Preservation Virginia as one of the Most Endangered Historic Sites in 2013. Emergency roof and masonry repairs were completed shortly thereafter, and in 2014, the site received funding to establish an ADA-accessible entrance, improving public access to the museum.
The second floor, where Edith spent her childhood, remains in need of restoration. As we continue to uncover and preserve this rich history, we welcome support from the public.

Do you have photographs, stories, or information about the Bolling Building? We would love to hear from you!
Please contact the museum and help bring even more of this remarkable story to light.