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
October 21, 2024, 11:00am - 12:00pm
IN-PERSON: Free Event Introduce Your Child to the World of Books and Build Early Literacy Skills - Setting your child up for a lifetime of success is easier than you think! Every time you sing, play, rhyme, and read, you are investing in your child's future by building literacy skills, making learning fun, encouraging creativity, and sparking curiosity. The National First Ladies Library & Museum is closed to the general public on Mondays but will be open for these special events.
An Evening with Jenna Bush Hager: Speaking of Books Author Series
October 24, 2024, 6:30pm - 7:30pm
The National First Ladies Library & Museum is thrilled to partner with the Stark Library to bring Jenna Bush Hager to Canton through the Speaking of Books Author Series. Join us at the Canton Palace Theater for an inspiring author talk by Jenna Bush Hager. Before the public event, there will be an exclusive, private VIP reception at the National First Ladies Library & Museum (VIP Reception is by invitation and sponsorship only; please contact Patty Dowd Schmitz at pdschmitz@firstladies.org for information).
Legacy Lecture: Unveiling Edith Wilson's Political Power w/ Edith Michel
November 8, 2024, 12:00pm - 1:00pm
VIRTUAL: Discover the untold political influence of Edith Wilson with Edith Michel from the President Woodrow Wilson House. Explore Edith’s activism, her pivotal role during Wilson’s illness, and how her legacy shapes the modern view of First Ladies.
Storytime & More with Stark Library
November 18, 2024, 11:00am - 12:00pm
IN-PERSON: Free Event Introduce Your Child to the World of Books and Build Early Literacy Skills - Setting your child up for a lifetime of success is easier than you think! Every time you sing, play, rhyme, and read, you are investing in your child's future by building literacy skills, making learning fun, encouraging creativity, and sparking curiosity. The National First Ladies Library & Museum is closed to the general public on Mondays but will be open for these special events.
Third Thursday Night Out with the First Ladies - The Mysterious Mrs. Nixon w/ Heath Lee and the Nixon East Wing Staff
November 21, 2024, 6:30pm - 8:30pm
IN PERSON: Don't miss this one-of-a-kind opportunity to be part of a truly unique evening at the National First Ladies Library & Museum! This November, we're thrilled to welcome Heath Hardage Lee, the acclaimed author of the newly released book, The Mysterious Mrs. Nixon: The Life and Times of Washington's Most Private First Lady. Lee will bringing along several members of First Lady Pat Nixon's East Wing staff for a one-night-only unforgettable wine and cheese event at the museum.
First Ladies on the Page Book Club – Spoken from the Heart by Laura Bush
November 25, 2024, 7:00pm - 8:00pm
VIRTUAL: Join our curatorial staff for a facilitated book club discussion of Laura Bush’s autobiography, Spoken from the Heart. Each season, we dive into a book inspired by a different First Lady, engaging our virtual audience in robust online discussions. This month’s selection offers a rich exploration of Laura Bush's life and historical connections.
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!
