EBW Prospectus

The Bolling Home Restoration Project

Located above the Edith Bolling Wilson Birthplace Museum on Main Street in the heart of downtown Wytheville, Virginia, the Bolling Home served as the residence of the Bolling family from 1866 to 1899. This historically significant second-floor apartment is where Edith Bolling Wilson spent her formative years, from her birth in 1872 until she moved to Richmond and then Washington as a young lady – an environment that helped shape her character, values, and future role as First Lady of the United States. Despite its importance, the Bolling Home has never been fully restored and remains in a deteriorated state. The space currently lacks accessibility by the disabled, as well as essential infrastructure, including heat, air conditioning, and plumbing, and suffers from damaged plaster walls and ceilings. Nevertheless, many original architectural features remian such as flooring, wallpaper, fireplaces, mantels, and hearths offering a rare and authentic glimpse into later 19th century domestic life. These features are now in urgent need of conservation and restoration. To initiate the planning process for the home’s preservation, the Edith Bolling Wilson Birthplace Museum was awarded a planning grant by the National Trust for Historic Preservation . This grant enabled the engagement of architect Carter Green, AIA , from Staunton, Virginia. Mr. Green is developing a comprehensive architural plan through 2025 that will guide the historic preservation and adaptive reuse of the Bolling Home. His work is presented in four key phases: 1. Architural Conditions Assessment A thorough evaluation of the second-floor apartment and building space updating and expanding upon existing Historic Structures Reports (HSR) to determine restoration needs and to enhance both visitor experience and collection care. 2. Historical Research and Documentation Detailed reserarch into the building’s evolution to inform interpretation strategies, identify ongoing maintenance needs, and support informed decision-making about the use of interior spaces. 3. Treatment and Use Recommendtions Professional guidance on restoration treatments and adaptive uses of the space to inform phased fundraising and implementaiton strategies. 4. Long-Term Maintenance Plan A sustainable plan to preserve the integrity of the building over time while supporting evolving museum programming and operational needs. Restoration Planning and Phases