They say behind every successful man stands a strong woman. While it is time a woman serves The United States of America as President - there is a long standing history of strong women in The White House serving our country as The First Lady. The First Lady is the woman who makes The White House, a home. In this highly visible position she sets the stage for international political guests to our country, and has a platform to advocate for specific causes to help further social progress.
In celebration of the First Lady. Here are a few photos of signature items created for and adored by past Presidential First Ladies. This collection is found in the Smithsonian Museum of American History.
The photo above features samples from the First Lady's china collection. Top Left, Mary Lincoln's china pattern 1861. Bess Truman's china pattern 1945. Lucy Hayes's china pattern 1877. Right side, Sarah Polk's china pattern 1845
Above is the 1890 inaugural gown of Caroline Scott Harrison. This First Lady lent her prestige to the founding of the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution.
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Edith Wilson's gown is from 1915. As First Lady during World War I, Mrs. Wilson set sheep to graze on the White House lawn rather than waste gasoline in mowing it. The wool from the sheep was then auctioned off for the benefit of the American Red Cross.
In the background sits Julia Grant's gown from 1869. The fabric for this dress is made from silk given from the Emperor of China.
Jacqueline Kennedy's 1961 state dinner dress stands to the left and fades into the background while her signature three row pearl neckless takes center stage.
I hope these photos showcase the triumph of women in history marked by their own personal signature style.
