National Museum of American History (U.S.) (NMAH) Search this
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Place:
United States
Date:
May 24, 1955
Category:
Chronology of Smithsonian History
Notes:
Annual Report contains numerous photos showing new installation
Torch, 5/1955, p. 1
Annual Report of the United States National Museum of the Smithsonian Institution for the year 1955, p. 7
Annual Report of the Smithsonian Institution for the year 1955, p. 4
Summary:
Re-opening of the First Ladies' Hall. Gowns moved from the front hall of the Arts and Industries Building to the new First Ladies' Hall, west-north range, A&I. Attendees included President Dwight Eisenhower, Mamie Eisenhower was at the ceremony, having recently donated her inaugural dress. "In creating the period settings for these gowns, architectural details from the White House have been combined with furniture and fixtures associated with both the White House and the First Ladies. Consequently, the dresses will be displayed in the type of surroundings in which they were originally worn." The exhibit featured reconstructions of eight White House rooms, decorated in period style from its earliest appearance to the present time, containing architectural details recovered from the White House during its recent renovation.
