25 Years of Amazement Square

Long before it became a place for play, the J.W. Wood Building stood at the center of Lynchburg’s commercial life. Built in the mid-1800s, this Civil War–era structure has served many purposes over more than a century—reflecting the evolving story of the city itself.

Located near the James River and the railroad, the building played an important role in Lynchburg’s growth as a major trading and industrial hub. Today, it remains one of the largest and best-preserved historic commercial buildings in the city and is proudly listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

In 2001, after years of planning, restoration, and community collaboration, the J.W. Wood Building found new life as the home of Amazement Square—Lynchburg’s first hands-on, multidisciplinary children’s museum. Its transformation preserved the character of the historic structure while reimagining the interior as a vibrant, welcoming space for learning through play.

One unexpected discovery during the building’s restoration—a faded exterior sign reading “Death to All Insects”—sparked a creative turning point. With community input, the phrase was reimagined as “Respect to All Insects,” inspiring the creation of Amazement Square’s beloved mascots, the LynchBugs, and reinforcing the Museum’s commitment to curiosity, care, and respect for all forms of life.

Today, Amazement Square continues to honor the past while looking forward—welcoming children and families into a place where history, creativity, and discovery come together every day.