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 the First Ladies.
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 First Ladies 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
August 18, 2025, 11:00am - 12:00pm
IN-PERSON: Help your little one take the first step toward school success with Storytime & More! This interactive event in partnership with Stark Library uses stories, songs, rhymes, and art to build early literacy skills and spark your child’s imagination. Free for children birth to preschool.
Third Thursday: Ida Saxton McKinley at Home
August 21, 2025, 6:30pm - 8:00pm
IN-PERSON: Join us for a delightful evening at the Saxton-McKinley House to explore the life and fashion of First Lady Ida Saxton McKinley. Enjoy a guided tour, see her stunning personal effects, and relax with wine and cheese in a peaceful urban park setting. Third Thursdays Generously Sponsored by Employers Health.
First Ladies on the Page Book Club: The President’s Wife: A Novel by Tracey Wood
August 25, 2025, 7:00pm - 8:00pm
VIRTUAL: Join us for a virtual discussion of The President’s Wife: A Novel by Tracey Wood. Dive into the life of Edith Bolling Wilson, the remarkable First Lady who stepped in to fill the shoes of the presidency during a critical time in American history. Tracey Wood will join us to share insights into Edith’s life and discuss the novel.
Legacy Lecture: Julia Grant in Her Own Words
September 5, 2025, 12:00pm - 1:00pm
VIRTUAL: Step back into history with First Lady Julia Grant as she shares her extraordinary life in this virtual first-person performance by Women in History. From her early life on a plantation to her role as wife of General Ulysses S. Grant during the Civil War and Reconstruction, experience the remarkable journey of one of America’s most fascinating First Ladies.
Third Thursday Wine & Cheese: First Ladies & Their Iconic Hats
September 18, 2025, 6:30pm - 8:00pm
IN-PERSON: Enjoy wine and cheese during a fascinating evening exploring the iconic hats worn by First Ladies throughout history. Get an up-close look at rarely displayed original hats from our collection and learn how these fashion pieces were statements of power and elegance. Our expert staff will guide you through the stories behind these iconic accessories and the First Ladies who wore them. Third Thursdays Generously Sponsored by Employers Health.
Women of the White House Gala
September 20, 2025, 6:00pm - 9:00pm
IN-PERSON: Join us for an elegant evening celebrating the legacy of America’s First Ladies and the 25th anniversary of the National First Ladies Library & Museum’s partnership with the National Park Service. Enjoy a Kennedy-inspired dinner, live entertainment, and a panel featuring former First Lady Chiefs of Staff, including Anita B. McBride, former Chief of Staff to First Lady Laura Bush.
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 their eyes, ensuring that their stories are preserved to inspire the next generation of visionary leaders 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!
