Dear Stepping Stones Family,

We are overjoyed to share news of a historic homecoming made possible with help from generous supporters. Yesterday, Stepping Stones successfully acquired the most important artifact in 12-Step history—the original hand-edited manuscript of Alcoholics Anonymous—the “Big Book.” This foundational document will return to the place where Bill and Lois Wilson lived, welcomed visitors, and shaped global fellowships that carry hope to millions. It will become a centerpiece of Stepping Stones’ collection.

It has been a remarkable two weeks since the auction house announced the July 1 auction. Our Board of Trustees met a week before the auction. We reflected on Lois Wilson’s hope that future generations would see the original manuscript. At that critical moment, generous pledges were made to combine with organizational funds to enable an auction bid.

Would we have enough to bring the manuscript home?

Over seven days backers emerged—dedicated Trustees and Advisors, a tour guide and garden volunteer, staff, longtime supporters, and a new friend who texted us during the auction. Our funds, combined with twenty-one backers, provided just enough to make the winning bid. We witnessed firsthand what happens when people who care about preserving recovery history join in unison for Stepping Stones.

The original working manuscript will be a treasure in Stepping Stones’ collection—joining 110,000 original artifacts entrusted to us by the Wilsons. Global visitors will experience it in the authentic environment where Bill and Lois lived from 1941 onward.

The crucial early A.A. document with the suggested edits for the Big Book will be cared for by our professional museum and archive staff. The homecoming of the manuscript deepens Stepping Stones’ story as a place of history, connection, and inspiration.

We share this news with profound gratitude. You—our supporters, friends, and extended Stepping Stones family—made this possible through your enthusiasm, faith in our stewardship, well wishes, and support. The manuscript will be protected, studied, and cherished for generations to come as part of our mission to preserve and share the home, archive, and legacy of the Wilsons.

As we prepare for the future preservation and display of the manuscript, we invite all who feel moved by this milestone to support our work. Together, we honor the past and inspire the future.

With profound appreciation for your love of Stepping Stones,

William H. Barton
Sally A. Corbett-Turco
President, Board of Trustees & Executive Director
The Stepping Stones Foundation®
Stepping Stones – Historic Home of Bill & Lois Wilson®