Archive for the ‘Arkansas 1st Families’ Category

The Old State House Museum was the original capitol building for the State of Arkansas. Consequently, the museum has a large collection of Arkansas political artifacts as well as artifacts from past Arkansas governors and their families.

One of the most unique collections belonging to the Old State House Museum, though, is the collection of inaugural gowns worn by Arkansas’ First Ladies. Started in 1942 and spanning the 19th, 20th and 21st centuries, the collection contains 30 gowns.

The earliest gown in the collection (circa 1889) was worn by Mary Eagle, wife of Governor James K. Eagle.

Inaugural Gown Worn by Arkansas 1st Lady, Mary Eagle

The most recent gown was worn by our current First Lady, Ginger Beebe at Governor Mike Beebe’s Inaugural Ball in 2007.

Inaugural Gown Worn by Arkansas 1st Lady, Ginger Beebe

Because the gowns span three centuries, they reflect a broad spectrum of women’s fashion. All of the gowns are on exhibit in the museum and can be viewed any day of the week.