September 3, 2024
National First Ladies Library & Museum Announces a Captivating Fall 2024 Event Series
As the leaves begin to turn, the National First Ladies Library & Museum launches a vibrant series of fall events that invite the public to explore the rich history and cultural impact of America’s First Ladies. This season’s programming offers a diverse blend of virtual and in-person experiences, each designed to illuminate these remarkable women's personal stories, legacies, and contributions.
The season kicks off on September 11th with a unique opportunity to go ‘behind the scenes’ of the museum’s archives. In our “Talk with a Curator” online lecture series, Michelle Gullion, the museum’s esteemed Director of Collections & Research, guides participants through a virtual exploration of the institution’s priceless collection of First Ladies artifacts. These programs promise to be a treat, offering attendees the chance to discover the historical treasures the museum carefully preserves so they are accessible for future generations.
On September 13th, the museum will delve into the complex identity of one of the most enigmatic First Ladies, Mary Todd Lincoln, in an installment of our online Legacy Lecture series titled “The Kentucky Todds in the Lincoln White House.” Author and historian Donna McCreary will unravel the often-misunderstood legacy of Mary Lincoln, shedding light on her Kentucky roots and the impact her family had on the Lincoln administration. This virtual event will offer attendees a new perspective on the trials and tribulations faced by the Todd family in Washington, D.C.
As the fall season progresses, the museum will open its doors for a series of in-person events that promise to bring history to life. On October 3rd, the historic Saxton-McKinley Home will host a Gilded Age-themed open house, featuring a rare display of more than five authentic Ida McKinley gowns. This one-night-only event will be accompanied by complimentary horse-drawn carriage rides, offering guests a fully immersive Victorian-era experience. This event is presented in partnership with Visit Canton and is supported by the McKinley Museum, Ohio History Connection, and the Massillon Museum.
October also brings the exciting “Speaking of Books” Author Series, where the museum, in partnership with Stark Library, will welcome Jenna Bush Hager to Canton. On October 24th, Hager will share insights from her life, including her experiences growing up in the White House and her work as a literacy advocate. This special evening will feature an exclusive VIP reception at the National First Ladies Library & Museum, providing a rare chance for guests to connect with this influential figure in an intimate setting.
As the holiday season approaches, the museum will offer a festive “Timeless Holiday Tea with the First Ladies” on December 8th. Guests will be treated to a delightful afternoon of tea, treats, and historical insights, courtesy of Janet Weir Creighton, Stark County, Ohio, Commissioner, former mayor of Canton, and a deputy assistant to the president in the George W. Bush administration. This event, which also includes a silent auction and a chance to explore the “Leaders in Literacy” exhibit, is the perfect way to celebrate the season with family and friends.
The National First Ladies Library & Museum’s fall 2024 event series is a testament to the enduring legacy of America’s First Ladies. Through these thoughtfully curated programs, the museum continues to offer the public meaningful ways to engage with history, whether through virtual lectures that bring new perspectives to well-known stories or through in-person events that create unforgettable experiences. This fall, the museum invites everyone to join in celebrating the lives and contributions of these extraordinary women.
For more information about the fall programming, contact Stephanie Bohnak at sbohnak@firstladies.org. For general information, visit www.firstladies.org or contact Patty Dowd Schmitz at pdschmitz@firstladies.org.
About the National First Ladies Library & Museum
We 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.
The National First Ladies Library & Museum was founded in Canton, Ohio, in 1995 by Mary Regula, wife of former U.S. Representative Ralph Regula. It is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization with a mission to preserve, promote and educate about the significant role of First Ladies of the U.S. and their contributions throughout history. We aim to inspire young leaders by telling the story of American history uniquely through the eyes of the women who served alongside their presidential husbands. The organization operates and manages the First Ladies National Historic Site in a partnership agreement with the National Park Service. In 2000, President Bill Clinton signed a bill establishing the First Ladies National Historic Site in Canton as the 380th unit of the National Park Service. The site consists of the Ida Saxton McKinley House, the family home of First Lady Ida Saxton McKinley and the longtime residence of President William and Ida McKinley, as well as First Ladies Park and the National First Ladies Library & Museum (Visitors Center), which includes exhibit space, a Victorian theatre, a research library, conference and seminar rooms, archival storage and processing rooms, and administrative offices. We 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.