One of the most iconic features of the Wake Forest Historical Museum grounds is the “Old Well.” This elegant marble fountain, proudly nestled beneath a six-column gazebo with a copper roof, has become a cherished Wake Forest landmark. Over the years, it has stood as an enduring symbol of both Wake Forest College and Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary, deeply rooted in the community’s history and traditions.

The origins of the “Old Well” date back to 1911 when the Wake Forest College graduating class raised funds to commission a marble drinking fountain designed by Suffolk Marble Works. Plans for a gazebo to cover the fountain were drawn by New York architect Frank Perkins, but construction was paused indefinitely for unknown reasons. The five-foot, four-inch polished marble fountain was installed at the center of campus, just north of an obsolete well and hand pump that would be replaced by a new well later that year.

More than two decades later, the graduating class of 1934 revived the effort to construct the gazebo, raising funds for its construction. Using Perkins’ original plans, the school collaborated with Kane contractors to erect the structure. George W. Kane’s Durham-based building company, already working on several campus projects, stepped in to raise funds for any expenses beyond alumni contributions. Over time, the fountain and gazebo became known as the “Old Well,” a beloved spot on the campuses of Wake Forest College and, later, Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary.

Today, the Wake Forest Historical Museum conserves the “Old Well” so that future generations can enjoy this historic monument. The museum’s logo even features a stylized rendition of this stately structure. In 2001, Southeastern donated the “Old Well” to the Wake Forest College Birthplace Society, and the fountain and gazebo were moved to the museum’s grounds. Wake Forest College alumni, local residents, and businesses generously funded the relocation and reconstruction. Unfortunately, though, less than a year later, a Society member arrived at the museum to find the fountain vandalized, so the museum launched a new campaign for its repair.

Preservation efforts continued over the years, culminating in 2013 when the museum partnered with Wake Forest University to restore the aging gazebo. The project ensured that this historic structure would maintain its beauty and significance for future generations. The “Old Well” now stands as a testament to the rich history of Wake Forest and the community’s dedication to preserving its heritage.

We invite you to visit the “Old Well” at the Wake Forest Historical Museum. Whether you’re reading on a nearby bench or enjoying a picnic on the grounds, this historic treasure is a perfect spot to relax and reflect on the rich history of Wake Forest.