UPCOMING EVENTS
STEP INSIDE HISTORY
Get to know what made our First Ladies tick with deep dives into their careers, passions, hobbies, and even recipes. Our in-person events are perfect for girls’ night out, a historic date with someone you love, or a fascinating learning experience with the whole family. And our online events are a wonderful way to learn more about these amazing ladies!
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.
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.
Storytime & More with Stark Library
February 27, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm
IN-PERSON: Join the National First Ladies Library & Museum and Stark Library for a free, family-friendly Storytime & More! program. Enjoy interactive stories and activities that foster early literacy and creativity for young children and families.
Legacy Lecture: Mary Lincoln’s Photograph Album
March 13, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm
VIRTUAL: Explore Mary Lincoln’s personal photograph album with scholar Laura Keyes. This virtual lecture offers a rare look at the moments Mary Lincoln chose to preserve – and those she didn’t – revealing her life, her family, and her legacy in a deeply personal way.
Region 5 Ohio History Day
March 14, 2026 9:00am - 3:00pm
IN-PERSON: Teachers and students – celebrate student creativity and historical discovery at the Region 5 Ohio History Day! Students from eight counties are invited to present exhibits, performances, documentaries, papers, and websites, bringing history to life in innovative ways.
Third Thursday: Curtain Up on Culture and Charm
March 19, 2026 6:30pm - 8:00pm
IN-PERSON: Celebrate culture, charm, and creativity with the First Ladies at this Third Thursday Wine & Cheese program. Explore how these remarkable women inspired others through music, art, and performance while enjoying light refreshments and engaging conversation.