As we look back on 2020, a year like none other, we are reminded of the value celebrating rituals year after year brings us. Today we mark the anniversary of Woodrow Wilson’s birth. Each year, a U.S. military general or naval flag officer lays a wreath at the gravesite of each deceased former U.S. president on his birthday. Despite the pandemic, this duty is still carried out. Today, a wreath-laying ceremony was performed by Maj. Gen. Omar J. Jones IV, commanding general, JFHQ-NCR / USAMDW at the tomb of Woodrow Wilson at the Washington National Cathedral in Washington, DC. Prayers were said for both the President and First Lady Edith Bolling Wilson, who died on this day, Wilson’s birthday, in 1961.
As we look forward to 2021 we are eager for a return to normalcy such as celebrating rituals, together, and reopening our doors to visitors and guests.
And in 2021, more than ever, we are reminded that normalcy cannot mean that we forget the issues that the Woodrow Wilson House is dedicated to exploring and understanding. We will continue to use Wilson’s legacy, African American history and women’s history to help people understand today’s issues of social and racial justice within a historical context.
We look forward to having you join us virtually, and when possible, in person.
Wishing you a happy and healthy new year!
