Located in the rolling hills of Pocahontas County, West Virginia, the town of Hillsboro is home to the Pearl S. Buck Birthplace Museum. This historic site is where the world-renowned author, Pearl S. Buck, began her extraordinary life journey. This year, we celebrate a remarkable milestone — the 50th anniversary of this iconic landmark.
A Life of Accomplishment
Pearl S. Buck, a name synonymous with literary brilliance, was a writer, activist and humanitarian. She won the Pulitzer Prize in 1932 for her book, “The Good Earth” and in 1938 was the first American woman to be awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature.
Born in Hillsboro on June 26, 1892, Buck’s life took an early turn when her family moved to China just months later. Growing up as a missionary’s daughter, she spent most of her formative years immersed in Chinese culture. Yet, her West Virginia roots remained a constant in her life, influencing her work and worldview.
Preserving A Piece Of History
Today, her birthplace stands as a testament to her legacy. The Pearl S. Buck Birthplace Museum preserves the spirit of this extraordinary woman, offering visitors a glimpse into her early life and the profound impact she had on the world. To commemorate this special anniversary, the museum has unveiled a captivating new exhibit, “My Mother’s House – A Dream Shared.” This exhibit delves into the inspiring story of how the birthplace was saved from obscurity and transformed into a cherished cultural landmark.
We had the opportunity to speak with B.J. Gudmundsson, President of the Pearl S. Buck Birthplace Foundation and Preservation Officer with Preserving Pocahontas, who curated the exhibit. Gudmundsson shared the remarkable story of Marie Leist, a local champion who played a pivotal role in preserving the birthplace.
Leist’s passion for preserving Pearl S. Buck’s legacy, coupled with the support of the Ronceverte Women’s Club, led to the formation of the Pearl S. Buck Birthplace Foundation. Through her tireless efforts, the dream of restoring the birthplace became a reality.
For a decade, Leist and Buck worked to raise funds and garner public interest in restoring the historic home. The exhibit “My Mother’s House – A Dream Shared” chronicles this transformative period, from the initial spark of an idea to the triumphant reopening of the museum.
The “My Mother’s House – A Dream Shared” Exhibit
Through photographs, personal artifacts and displays, visitors can trace Pearl S. Buck’s journey back to her West Virginia roots and witness the unwavering dedication of Marie Leist. The Marie Leist Collection includes photographs, slides and architectural plans, documenting the arduous process of restoring the author’s birthplace and transforming it into a public museum. Tragically, Pearl Buck passed away a year before the museum’s grand opening on May 4, 1974. Yet, her spirit lives on in the exhibit’s culminating celebration, a testament to the indomitable power of community and perseverance.
The “My Mother’s House – A Dream Shared” exhibit is a heartfelt tribute to both Pearl S. Buck and Marie Leist, showcasing their enduring impact on the community and the world.
As you step inside the modest two-story home where Pearl S. Buck was born, you’ll be transported back in time. The museum’s collection of personal artifacts, photographs and exhibits offers a detailed narrative of her life and accomplishments.
Celebrate With Us
Join us in celebrating this incredible anniversary! The General Federation of Women’s Clubs of West Virginia is hosting the F-U-N Raiser: Lemonade, Loot & Lunch. Mark your calendars for August 10, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. To participate, bring an item for the Silent Auction. Tickets are $50 and can be purchased by calling the Pearl S. Buck Birthplace Museum at (304) 653-4430. Advance registration is required by Tuesday, August 6. Please leave your contact information if there’s no answer, and someone will call you back to complete your registration.
Plan a visit to experience the magic of this historic site and discover the enduring legacy of a literary icon. The museum is open through the last weekend of October.