Niles society showcases inaugural gowns of first ladies

NILES, Ohio (WKBN) – For years the Niles Historical Society has showcased replica gowns of former first ladies. During this election season, WKBN 27 First News is taking a look at how the display came together.

You’d be hard-pressed to find a bigger stage to showcase a sense of style than on Inauguration Day.  Through the years, it’s served as an opportunity for the first lady to flaunt her fashion to the nation, and some of the most classic looks are on display at the Niles Historical Society.

“It’s always a surprise to see what the First Ladies are going to wear,” said Anna Marie Beagle, with the Niles Historical Society. “It’s a step back into history. I have to say styles have changed.”

Back in 1976 to celebrate America’s bicentennial, a local Niles woman, Anne Frasca, took on a project to recreate first lady gowns worn on Inauguration Day.

“Because the same fabrics were not available, they had to try to recreate the dresses as closely as they could with fabric and lace and beading,” Beagle said. “These fabrics weren’t available, If you look at some of them, the beading had to be done by hand.

Thirty-nine gowns were replicated, modeled by local women simulating everything from hairstyles to mannerisms of the first ladies. They were photographed at the Capital to celebrate.

Ten of them have been on display for the last month at the museum, including a replica of a dress worn by Jackie Kennedy in January 1961.

“Mrs. Coolidge’s dress in the library is always a favorite because she was a flapper. It’s a flapper, Roaring 20s-style dress,” Beagle said.

The historical society has also been in the process of restoring the wardrobes, which is no easy task but a key role in making sure these pristine pieces of history are preserved.

“There’s so much detail. It’s definitely a labor of love,” Beagle said.

The gowns are on display at the Ward—Thomas Museum, Home of the Niles Historical Society,
503 Brown Street Niles. Call 330-544-2143 for more information.

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