Rare Mary Lincoln Dress Displayed at ALPLM

First time the "strawberry dress" has been shown publicly in 15 years.

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum (ALPLM) in Springfield, Illinois has unveiled a rare dress that belonged to Mary Lincoln, the wife of the 16th U.S. President. The dress, known as the "strawberry dress" due to its pattern, has not been publicly displayed in 15 years. It was donated to the State of Illinois by Mary Lincoln's relatives in 1963 and is part of the museum's "Lincoln: A Life and Legacy that Defined a Nation" exhibit, which showcases the institution's most prized artifacts and documents related to Abraham Lincoln's life and impact.

Why it matters

Clothing from historical figures can provide unique insights into their personalities and lives. The display of Mary Lincoln's dress offers the public a rare opportunity to connect with the former First Lady in a tangible way and learn more about her tastes and character.

The details

The "strawberry dress" is a fragile artifact that is not often put on public display due to its delicate nature. It was last seen by the public in 2011. The dress is part of the ALPLM's ongoing exhibit exploring Lincoln's life and legacy, which will be open until April 26.

  • The dress was donated to the State of Illinois by Mary Lincoln's relatives in 1963.
  • The dress was last publicly displayed in 2011.
  • The "Lincoln: A Life and Legacy that Defined a Nation" exhibit featuring the dress will be open until April 26, 2026.

The players

Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum (ALPLM)

The museum that houses and displays artifacts and documents related to the 16th U.S. President, Abraham Lincoln, and his family.

Christina Shutt

The Executive Director of the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum.

Mary Lincoln

The wife of President Abraham Lincoln and the former First Lady of the United States.

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What they’re saying

“Clothing is so personal. It connects us to people of the past in a way few other objects can, and it reveals so much about the wearer's taste and personality. Mary Lincoln was a fascinating and complex person, and I hope seeing this dress helps people take a few minutes to learn more about her.”

— Christina Shutt, Executive Director, Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum (ALPLM News Release)

What’s next

The "strawberry dress" will remain on display at the ALPLM as part of the "Lincoln: A Life and Legacy that Defined a Nation" exhibit until the exhibit closes on April 26, 2026.

The takeaway

The rare public display of Mary Lincoln's personal dress provides a unique opportunity for visitors to the ALPLM to gain insight into the life and character of the former First Lady, offering a tangible connection to an important historical figure.