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About Wilde Manor in Virginia

HISTORY OF TAROVER

In 1854, Thomas Bruce undertook the monumental task of rebuilding Tarover after the original 1770's estate had been lost in a fire. He enlisted John Evans
Johnson, a prominent architect of the time, to design a new home that would retain the grandeur of its predecessor. The new house was constructed from native granite stone and was designed in a Gothic Revival style, with 14 rooms spanning three floors, making it one of the largest and most impressive homes in the region.
While the house was under construction, Thomas Bruce returned from a trip to find that the workmen, having run out of roofing materials, had ingeniously spread tar over the roof to protect the interior furnishings.
Impressed by their resourcefulness, Bruce named the property “Tarover” — a name that would endure for generations, representing both the home’s resilience and the resourcefulness of its people.
In the centuries that followed, Tarover experienced times of neglect and decline, yet it endured—preserved through the dedication of a few visionary owners who recognized the importance of safeguarding both the house and the rich history woven into this storied place.

Learn more about Wilde Conservation Foundation

MEET THE FOUNDERS

The Heart Behind Wilde Manor

Wilde Manor was born from a shared dream between Molly and Nick Wilde,  a dream of creating a place where people can connect with wildlife, learn about conservation, and experience the magic of nature up close.

With over 40 years of combined experience in animal care, medical programs, habitat design, and zoological management, they’ve dedicated their lives to building a sanctuary where education, conservation, and unforgettable guest experiences come together.

Nick Wilde

Co-Founder & Director

Nick brings over 20 years of experience in the exotic animal and zoological industry, working his way from animal trainer and caretaker to zoo director, curator, and award-winning habitat designer. Throughout his career, he’s worked with a wide range of species, managed zoological teams, and overseen the development of innovative animal exhibits across the country.

As the owner of Wilde Design, Nick has earned multiple national awards for excellence in exhibit design and construction. His designs are celebrated for blending natural beauty, animal enrichment, and guest experience — creating immersive habitats that prioritize animal welfare above all else.

At Wilde Manor, Nick’s vision shapes every detail of the property. From habitat design to guest pathways, his goal is to create an environment where both animals and visitors can thrive,  a place where education, conservation, and unforgettable experiences come together. 

Molly Wilde, LVT

Co-Founder & Director

For Molly, animals have always been at the center of her life. As a Licensed Veterinary Technician with over 20 years of clinical and zoological medicine experience, she has built a career dedicated to animal health and welfare. Molly has overseen multiple medical programs for zoological facilities, specializing in emergency care, neonatal development, nutrition, surgical assistance, hospital management, and daily medical operations.

At Wilde Manor, Molly leads all aspects of animal care, daily operations, and guest education. Her hands-on approach and passion ensure that every animal receives the highest standard of care and that every visitor leaves with a deeper connection to wildlife.

Above all, Molly’s greatest fulfillment comes from using her experience to inspire others. She believes that hands-on education and authentic connections are the keys to conservation — and Wilde Manor is her way of sharing that mission with every visitor.

Family Affair

Wilde Manor is more than just a business venture, it’s a family mission and a legacy in the making. For Molly and Nick, creating Wilde Manor is about building something lasting, something they can pass down to their daughters, Willa and Arabella. Their family’s love for nature, wildlife, and conservation is at the heart of everything they do, and it’s a passion they’re excited to share with their children and the community alike.

At Wilde Manor, families can connect with nature, learn about wildlife, and be inspired to protect it. Through initiatives like the Wilde Conservation Foundation, Molly and Nick are committed to creating impactful education programs, supporting conservation efforts, and protecting endangered species. Together with Willa and Arabella, they hope to ensure that the wonders of the natural world continue to thrive, not just for today, but for generations to come.

Our Vision

To create an unforgettable destination where people and wildlife connect, inspiring a deeper appreciation for nature, conservation, and community.

Our Mission

Wilde Manor is dedicated to providing extraordinary animal care, luxurious lodging, and meaningful educational experiences while supporting global conservation efforts.

Our Motto

Where Wildlife Meets Wonder