Wildwood was founded by Elder W. D. Frazee, who labored together with Neil Martin and George McClure. Their goal was to promote, practice, and demonstrate complete concepts of health for individuals to be able to achieve physical, mental, and spiritual wellness. They also desired a location where they could care for needy guests in an environment suited for optimal health.  Neil Martin was directed to the like-minded Dr. O. M. Hayward, who had purchased an extensive, beautiful property in the scenic Lookout Valley of northwest Georgia. Hayward was pleased with the vision of these young men and made the property available to them.

In 1942, Neil Martin, George McClure, and W. D. Frazee charted a non-profit corporation. They began treating guests in the main home of the 500 acre property. In 1949, Dr. Alan Harmer became the first staff physician. Over the years, Wildwood has been blessed with the dedicated, faithful efforts of many, including Dr. Marjorie Baldwin, Dr. S. D. Wheeler, Herbert Atherton, Dr. Raymond Neufeld, Charles Cleveland, Dr. Richard Hansen, and Wilbur Atwood.

Realizing the original facility’s inadequacy, the leadership of Wildwood in later years planned and constructed a new building, which was completed in 1971. This building features private patios for each room to encourage guests to spend more time outdoors. There is also a sun-lit parlor/lounge used for lectures, informal visiting, and social occasions. The new facility also includes a small, licensed general hospital with functioning clinical lab, x-ray facilities, and an outpatient clinic. Originally, there was an E.R., surgery facilities, and a treadmill testing area, all of which are currently unavailable.

For over 60 years now, Wildwood has been pressing forward as a ministry of healing, giving health for today and hope for tomorrow.