America’s first ladies have fascinated generations, influenced politics and style, advocated for social causes, and navigated an unpaid, unelected, and difficult role. From the exuberant Dolley Madison and troubled Mary Todd Lincoln, to the humanitarian Eleanor Roosevelt and the intriguing wives of our recent presidents, the exhibition celebrates the remarkable individuals who have occupied this demanding post. The showing of First Ladies at the National Constitution Center is the last stop on the exhibit’s national tour.
First Ladies is based on one of the Smithsonian’s most visited permanent exhibitions and contains artifacts from the rarely traveled first ladies collection of the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History, Behring Center. Organized by the National Museum of American History and the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service (SITES), First Ladies is made possible by A&E Network. Macy’s is the local presenting sponsor and NBC 10 is the official media partner for the Center’s showing of First Ladies.
The exhibition features more than two centuries of elegant inaugural and evening gowns, clothing and jewelry, White House furnishings and china, photographs and portraits, and campaign and personal memorabilia. It examines the demanding duties of the presidential partner and national hostess, explores how her role has evolved from ceremonial colleague to one of international celebrity and recognized political power, and illustrates the importance of the first lady’s public image to the success of a presidential administration.
October 5 - December 2, 2007
Acclaimed photographer Richard Avedon's never before displayed photographs of John and Jacqueline Kennedy and their two children combine politics, style, and photographic history to provide a compelling glimpse of these American icons. The Kennedys: Portrait of a Family will be on display inside the Center’s main exhibition, and is free with regular museum admission. This exhibit coincides with the Center’s showing of the First Ladies: Political Role and Public Image exhibition.