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An important element of the mission of the Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace is the preservation and interpretation of the life of Juliette Gordon Low and the Wayne-Gordon House. The Birthplace is an architectural landmark honoring one of the nation’s most remarkable women whose vibrant story, artistic talents and organizational achievements inspire generations of visitors.
Juliette Gordon Low’s contributions to girls’ lives and American culture have made her Birthplace one of the most visited historic house museums in Georgia and in the nation. Because of its historical significance, the Birthplace, along with the Girl Scout First Headquarters Building, was designated a National Historic Landmark. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1965, it is in the first list of places to be so designated by Congress.
Our Preservation Philosophy
Carefully considered preservation and regular maintenance of the Wayne-Gordon House, along with its half-acre site and outbuildings, are of critical importance to Girl Scouts of the USA. GSUSA opened the house in 1956 as a program center for Girl Scouts and as an historic house museum for the general public. The program of activities for Girl Scouts means that work on the house strikes a balance between strict historic preservation practices and interpretive adaptation of the site as an educational facility.
The preservation of the Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace centers on the life of one historically important individual, Juliette Gordon Low, the founder of the Girl Scouts, rather than on architectural history. It is not the early 19th-century construction date of the house that makes it significant; rather it is the house as the setting for the years of Juliette Low's life. Indeed, in 1886, the year Daisy’s wedding took place; the house was extensively remodeled to include a third story and a piazza.
Central to our preservation philosophy is respect for the historical integrity of the building. Projects preserve the character of each of the three buildings and the garden and grounds as they relate to the identified interpretive period of the house. Careful design revisions allow maximum access for all visitors.
Ultimately, the status of the site as a national landmark and its primary association with Juliette Gordon Low guide decisions related to the preservation, interpretation and protection of the Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace. By thoughtful preservation, we help this house endure and let it teach present and future generations about the life of Juliette Gordon Low and the early history of the Girl Scouts.
