De Witt Wallace Decorative Arts Museum - DeWitt and Lila Wallace

DeWitt and Lila Wallace

In 1922, the Wallaces published the first issue of their Reader's Digest, largely a carefully selected compilation of magazine articles of many types. The concept was well received and soon became one of the most widely circulated periodicals in the world.

For relaxation, the Wallaces had been regular visitors to Colonial Williamsburg for over 50 years when they became involved as major financial supporters late in their lives as part of their philanthropic efforts. Also from New York, their generosity closely followed the enormousness of that of the Rockefeller family. After they died in 1981 and 1984, respectively, the new museum opened in 1985.