EBW Prospectus

Caregiver, Entrepreneur, Role Model, and Steward The Edith Bolling Wilson Birthplace Museum tells the extraordinary story of First Lady Edith Bolling Wilson, “From Wytheville to the White House.” The values instilled in young Edith during her upbringing in Wytheville, Virginia, shaped her into a resilient, forward-thinking woman prepared to meet the challenges she would face as the wife and First Lady of President Woodrow Wilson. Located in the historic Bolling Building, the Museum offers a vibrant space for interpretation, education, and outreach. It highlights the multifaceted life of Edith Bolling Wilson within the historical context of her time and connects her legacy to contemporary themes of leadership, service, and civic engagement. Historical Significance As the only birthplace museum of a First Lady in Virginia and one of only eight in the nation dedicated to the interpretation of a First Lady, the Edith Bolling Wilson Birthplace Museum preserves and promotes the legacy of a woman whose contributions have long been overlooked but were pivotal during a defining era of American history. Through interactive exhibits and educational programming, the Museum brings history to life by exploring Edith Bolling Wilson’s roles as a Caregiver, Entrepreneur, Role Model, and Steward. A Caregiver Edith’s role as a caregiver began early in life. As a young girl, she was Grandmother Bolling’s caregiver. This spirit of caregiving continued throughout her life, most notably during her husband’s presidency when she became his primary support following his stroke. Even in her later years, she cared for three of her siblings until their deaths in her Washington, D.C. home. An Entrepreneur Widowed at a young age, Edith inherited the prestigious Galt & Bro. Jewelers in Washinton, D.C. Demonstrating resilience and business insight, she retained skilled management, lived modestly, and successfully paid off the store’s obligations. In 1934, she sold the business to its employees, embodying forward-thinking leadership and generosity. A Role Model Edith transformed the role of First Ladies. As the first Honorary President of the Girl Scouts of America, she set a precedent followed by her successors. She served as an unofficial leader of the Democratic Women of America and, in 1928, was even considered a potential candidate for Vice President. Her close relationship with every succeeding First Lady and her participation in the 1961 Inaugural Parade of President John F. Kennedy reflect her enduring influence on American public life. A Steward of the Nation Edith supported her husband during World War I, decoded war messages, volunteered for the Red Cross, and assumed increased political responsibilities during his illness. Her presence on the world stage, most notably as the first First Lady to travel to Europe with a President, helped establish the First Lady’s role in international diplomacy. Perhaps Edith’s most significant contributions to our country lies in her connection with two Constitutional Amendments. 19th - While Edith was not a supporter of the women’s suffrage movement, her prominence as First Lady and the life she lived exemplified the dreams of every suffragist. 25th -There was no legislation in place addressing the incapacitation of a President when Wilson suffered a stroke. This was not fully addressed until 1967 when the 25th Amendment was finally ratified. Edith challenged conventional gender roles, earning her such titles as “The Secret President” and “The First Woman President.” Educational Mission The Museum is dedicated to educating visitors from Wytheville, Wythe County, and the great Southwest Virginia region as well as national and international audiences about Edith Bolling Wilson’s life, leadership, and legacy. Through interpretation and outreach, the Museum ensures that her contributions to American history are recognized, celebrated, and shared with generations to come.