10/15: Celebration & Retrospection
Come to Wytheville! “Celebration & Retrospection” brings together the boutique Bolling Wilson Hotel, the Edith Bolling Wilson Birthplace Museum, and the historic Millwald Theatre marking the 151st birthday of First Lady Mrs. Wilson and the 15th anniversary of the opening of the Edith Bolling Wilson Birthplace Museum.
To mark this important date, the documentary, “The Bolling Wilson Hotel: History, Heritage, Hospitality,” will be shown at the Millwald Theatre on Sunday, October 15, at 2:30 pm, followed by a “Wine & Cheese” event at the Bolling Wilson Hotel in Wytheville. A highlight of both events will be an appearance of “Edith” portrayed by Betsy Ely.
This documentary, created by Wytheville native Chris Conte, tells the story of the Bolling Wilson Hotel through the lens of Wytheville’s long history of hospitality. From humble lodging houses like the Bell Tavern, to impressive resorts like the Boyd Hotel, and later modern hotels like the George Wythe, Wytheville’s idyllic scenery, mild climate, and mystical mineral waters fueled a prosperous hospitality industry that came to define this corner of Virginia. Through interviews with local residents, Ruth Anne Chitwood, Jean Lester, and John Johnson, memories from long ago come to life. This documentary honors one of Wytheville’s most beloved ladies – Ruth Anne Chitwood and is dedicated in her memory.
Creator Chris Conte comments: “This documentary premiering at the Millwald Theatre in Wytheville tells the complex story of the Bolling Wilson Hotel in a way that underscores the deep connection between communities and their historic landmarks. For the past two years, I have been writing, filming, and digging through obscure archives all over Virginia to try and do just that. Come and enjoy!”
Also in the documentary, learn about the newly renovated Millwald Theatre. Established in 1928, the Millwald Theatre was renovated and reopened as a community venue in 2022 harkening back to its roots as the hub of entertainment in downtown Wytheville. Viewing this documentary on Wytheville’s hotel history is especially meaningful since both the hotel and the theatre were built by Morris C. Miller.
Following the showing of “The Bolling Wilson Hotel: History, Heritage, Hospitality,” stroll up the street to the Bolling Wilson Hotel for a “Wine and Cheese” event and the dedication of the HERSHEDE Hall Grandmother Clock that dates to the George Wythe Hotel. The clock that originally stood in the George Wythe Hotel was purchased at auction by Dr. and Mrs. Randolph Chitwood when the hotel closed in 1973 and was donated to the Wythe County Historical Society. It was the wish of the Historical Society and Ruth Anne Chitwood that the clock once again graces the lobby of the Bolling Wilson Hotel. A plaque has been placed above the clock in recognition of Ruth Anne Chitwood and the Wythe County Historical Society. At the “Wine & Cheese” Event meet John Johnson, members of Ruth Anne Chitwood’s family, members of the Wythe County Historical Society, and the documentary creator, Chris Conte.
Bring your friends and family! Tickets to the Millwald Documentary event are complimentary. To reserve your seat and purchase tickets to the “Wine & Cheese” event at the Bolling Wilson Hotel, visit: www.edithbollingwilson.org or call 276-223-3484.
Submitted by the Edith Bolling Wilson Birthplace Museum
