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 with the First Ladies: An Evening with Ida Saxton McKinley
July 17, 2025, 6:30pm - 8:00pm
IN PERSON: Wine, cheese, and timeless fashion! Enjoy an elegant summer evening at the Saxton-McKinley House featuring First Lady Ida McKinley’s timeless fashion and personal artifacts, historic storytelling, and garden strolls. Doors open at 6:00 PM. Free parking available. Third Thursdays Generously Sponsored by Employers Health
Legacy Lecture: Jackie and the Summer White House with Kate Storey
July 18, 2025, 12:00pm - 1:00pm
VIRTUAL: Join White House by the Sea author and Rolling Stone journalist Kate Storey for a behind-the-scenes look at Jackie Kennedy’s life at the Summer White House in Cape Cod, known as Hyannis Port. Explore powerful moments of family, leadership, and loss from the Kennedy Compound—right from your own screen.
Storytime & More With Stark Library
July 28, 2025, 11:00am - 12:00pm
IN-PERSON: Discover the joy of learning together! This interactive Storytime, in partnership with Stark Library, combines engaging stories, rhymes, songs, and creative activities to help your child grow. Designed for kids from birth to preschool, Storytime builds literacy skills and prepares little ones for Kindergarten success.
Legacy Lecture: In Her Steps: Betty Ford's Life in Motion with Sharon Snowden
August 8, 2025, 12:00pm - 1:00pm
VIRTUAL: Join Sharon Snowden for a virtual lecture on the life and legacy of Betty Ford—a First Lady who reshaped the role through her candid activism and powerful advocacy on women’s rights, addiction, and health. Explore Betty Ford’s journey from dancer to First Lady and discover how she broke barriers during and after her time in the White House.
Talk with a Curator
August 13, 2025, 7:00pm - 8:00pm
VIRTUAL: Join Michelle Gullion, Director of Collections & Research, for an exclusive virtual glimpse behind the scenes of our First Ladies collection. Learn the stories behind the priceless artifacts and get a closer look at the personal history of America’s First Ladies.
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.
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!
