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
December 5, 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.
Holidays in the White House with Janet Weir Creighton
December 11, 2025 6:30pm - 8:00pm
IN-PERSON: Join Janet Weir Creighton for a festive look behind the scenes at White House holiday traditions and celebrations.
Legacy Lecture: From Grief to Grace—Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reclaims Her Story
December 12, 2025 12:00pm - 1:00pm
VIRTUAL: Explore the inspiring later life of Jackie Kennedy Onassis in this live lecture by historian Karen Dunak, revealing how Jackie redefined her legacy beyond the White House.
Cooking with the First Ladies: Lou Hoover
December 22, 2025 7:00pm - 8:00pm
VIRTUAL: Join Sarah Morgan for a tasty look at First Lady Lou Hoover’s favorite recipes and stories. Cook along and savor history in every bite!
Legacy Lecture: Cracking the Glass Ceiling from the East Wing
January 9, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm
VIRTUAL: Discover how America’s First Ladies have broken barriers and redefined leadership from the East Wing to the world stage. Presented in connection with the Canton Museum of Art’s Shattered Glass: The Women Who Elevated American Art, this virtual Legacy Lecture with Stephanie Bohnak explores how these women advanced equality, advocacy, and visibility for future generations.
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.
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!
