THE FIRST LADIES ARE THE FIRST LEADERS.
THEY SET THE STANDARD.
Inspiring. Empowering. Educating.
The National First Ladies Library & Museum partners with the First Ladies National Historic Site in Canton, Ohio, to preserve, promote, and educate about the significant role and contributions of our nation’s First Ladies, inspiring young leaders by telling the story of American history uniquely through the eyes of women.
LET OUR AMERICAN ICONS INSPIRE YOUR DESTINY.
The impact of the First Ladies on our nation is indisputable. Their historic firsts set precedents. Their selfless dedication to causes larger than themselves creates indelible legacies. Our mission is to tell the stories of the profound contributions of these remarkable women and empower a new generation of leaders to follow in their footsteps.
Below are some of our First Ladies' important causes.
How will they inspire YOU to make our nation a better place?
PRESERVATION
CANCER AWARENESS
CHILD WELFARE
DRUG PREVENTION
EDUCATION & ARTS
JOBS & HOUSING
MENTAL HEALTH
VETERAN SUPPORT
VOLUNTEERISM
EXPERIENCE THE FIRST LADIES NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE
The Saxton-McKinley House
331 S. Market Ave., Canton, Ohio 44702
The Saxton-McKinley house was built in 1842 and is the last remaining home with direct ties to Ida and William McKinley in their hometown of Canton, Ohio. Ida Saxton McKinley was born and raised in the home, which later served as the primary residence for Mr. and Mrs. McKinley from 1878 to 1891 while William served in the United States House of Representatives. The couple also spent time in this home when they were in Canton during President McKinley's terms in office. The Saxton-McKinley House has been meticulously restored to its Victorian splendor for guests to enjoy.
The Visitor Center and National First Ladies Library & Museum
205 Market Ave. S., Canton, Ohio 44702
The Visitor Center and Museum (housed in the former City National Bank building) hosts a several exhibit galleries, a Victorian theater, a children's interactive zone, a research library, conference and seminar rooms, archival storage and processing rooms, and administrative offices. Here, visitors can explore the legacies of our nation's First Ladies and enjoy featured exhibits that take a deeper dive into their contributions to American history.
ENGAGE WITH US
Storytime & More with Stark Library
February 24, 2025, 11:00am - 12:00pm
IN-PERSON: Join us for Storytime fun with Stark Library! Perfect for children from birth to preschool, our sessions feature stories, music, crafts, and activities designed to spark imagination and build early literacy skills.
First Ladies on the Page Book Club: American Daughters by Piper Huguley
February 24, 2025, 7:00pm - 8:00pm
VIRTUAL: Step into the lives of two remarkable women with this month’s book club selection, American Daughters by Piper Huguley. This historical novel explores the lifelong friendship between Portia Washington, daughter of the legendary educator Booker T. Washington, and Alice Roosevelt, daughter of President Theodore Roosevelt. Despite their different backgrounds, Portia and Alice’s friendship helped them face the challenges of marriage, motherhood, and societal expectations in the early 1900s. Huguley’s rich storytelling brings this dynamic era and these courageous women to life. Join us for a discussion on February 24 at 7:00 PM—everyone is welcome!
Ohio History Day Region 5 Contest
March 1, 2025, 9:00am-4:00pm
IN PERSON: Join us for the exciting Ohio History Day Region 5 Contest! This annual event invites students in grades 6–12 to present their historical research projects based on this year’s theme, "Rights and Responsibilities in History." Compete for a chance to advance to the state level and beyond!
Registration Opens: November 25, 2024
Contest Registration Deadline: February 12, 2025
Project Submission Deadline: February 21, 2025
Leading with Purpose: First Ladies in Women's History
March 12, 2025, 7:00pm - 8:00pm
VIRTUAL: Celebrate Women’s History Month with a special, free webinar featuring authors Lisa Burns and Teri Finneman. Explore how First Ladies have shaped history by building on one another’s legacies to redefine the role.
Legacy Lecture: Elizabeth Packard: The Woman Who Would Not Be Silenced
March 14, 2025, 12:00pm - 1:00pm
VIRTUAL: This Women’s History Month, join us for an inspiring Legacy Lecture featuring Laura Keyes in her portrayal of Elizabeth Packard. Wrongfully committed to an asylum by her husband in 1860, Packard waged a courageous fight for freedom and justice that led to reforms for women’s legal rights. Laura’s performance takes us to the heart of Elizabeth’s struggle in a time when women had little control over their own fates. Don’t miss this special presentation—reserve your spot for this free event today!
Storytime & More with Stark Library
March 17, 2025, 11:00am - 12:00pm
IN-PERSON: Join us for Storytime fun with Stark Library! Perfect for children from birth to preschool, our sessions feature stories, music, crafts, and activities designed to spark imagination and build early literacy skills.
LEAD THE WAY TO THE FUTURE
YOUR SUPPORT MAKES OUR VISION A REALITY.
Our First Ladies are American icons. When you generously give your time, talent, or funds, we can tell the story of American history through the eyes of these women and ensure that their stories are preserved to inspire the next generation of visionary women worldwide.
Memberships and donations support creating engaging exhibits, expanding educational programs, maintaining our historic site, and so much more. Support us today, and see what we can do together!
