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
Third Thursday: Wine & Cheese – Ohio’s Firsts & Originals
January 15, 2026 6:30pm - 8:00pm
IN-PERSON: Enjoy an evening of wine, cheese, and conversation as we explore Ohio’s rich legacy of First Ladies – Anna Harrison, Lucy Hayes, Lucretia Garfield, Caroline Harrison, Ida McKinley, Helen Taft, and Florence Harding. This Third Thursday program highlights the artifacts and stories that connect these women to the Buckeye State and to the history of the American presidency.
Storytime & More with Stark Library
January 23, 2026 11:00am - 11:30am
IN-PERSON: Join the National First Ladies Library & Museum and Stark Library for a free, family-friendly Storytime & More! This engaging program encourages early literacy and creativity through stories and activities. Perfect for young children and caregivers alike.
Legacy Lecture: An Unlikely Friendship – The Story of Two First Ladies, Eleanor Roosevelt and Mary McLeod Bethune
February 6, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm
VIRTUAL: Explore the extraordinary 40-year friendship between First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt and Mary McLeod Bethune, the “First Lady of the Struggle.” Presented by Women in History Ohio, this virtual Legacy Lecture brings their voices to life through storytelling and performance, highlighting how two women from different worlds united to champion equality and justice for all.
Talk with a Curator
February 11, 2026 7:00pm - 8:00pm
VIRTUAL: Go behind the scenes with the National First Ladies Library & Museum’s curators! This virtual program offers an insider look at our collections, exhibits, and artifacts, exploring the stories and legacies of America’s First Ladies while answering your questions about the work of preserving history.
Third Thursday Wine & Cheese: Innovation, Business & Work from the East Wing
February 19, 2026 6:30pm - 8:00pm
IN-PERSON: Explore innovation, leadership, and the behind-the-scenes work of America’s First Ladies at this Third Thursday Wine & Cheese program. Guests will enjoy wine and cheese while learning about the East Wing, its staff, and the creative influence of First Ladies throughout history.
First Ladies on the Page Book Club: Mrs. Lincoln’s Dressmaker by Jennifer Chiaverini
February 25, 2026 7:00pm - 8:00pm
VIRTUAL: Join the First Ladies on the Page Book Club to explore Mrs. Lincoln’s Dressmaker by Jennifer Chiaverini, the story of Elizabeth Hobbs Keckley and her friendship with Mary Lincoln. Featuring special guest Janis Daly and her #31TitlesInWomensHistory list, this virtual discussion highlights extraordinary women in history through historical fiction.
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!
