Explore America's First Ladies at the National First Ladies Museum in Canton

The only museum dedicated to the impact of presidential spouses is located in downtown Canton, Ohio.

Mar. 28, 2026 at 10:05am

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The National First Ladies Library & Museum in Canton, Ohio, is the country's only institution dedicated to examining the influence and legacies of America's first ladies throughout history. Visitors can explore fascinating artifacts, exhibits, and films that showcase the causes championed by presidential spouses, from civil rights to women's health.

Why it matters

As the United States celebrates its 250th anniversary, the National First Ladies Museum offers a unique opportunity to honor the critical yet often overlooked roles that first ladies have played in shaping American history and policy.

The details

The museum features a wide range of artifacts, from campaign buttons and magazine covers to lavish gowns and personal keepsakes that illuminate the lives and work of first ladies. Visitors can also tour the nearby Saxton-McKinley House, the Victorian-style home where President William McKinley and First Lady Ida Saxton McKinley once lived.

  • The National First Ladies Library & Museum is located in downtown Canton, Ohio.
  • The museum and Saxton-McKinley House are operated in partnership with the National Park Service.

The players

National First Ladies Library & Museum

The only library and museum in the country dedicated to examining the impact and legacies of America's first ladies.

Ida Saxton McKinley

The wife of President William McKinley, whose Victorian-style home in Canton is part of the First Ladies National Historic Site.

William McKinley

The 25th President of the United States, who lived in the Saxton-McKinley House in Canton while serving in the U.S. House of Representatives.

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The takeaway

The National First Ladies Museum offers a unique opportunity to celebrate the often-overlooked contributions of America's first ladies, who have played a vital role in shaping the country's history and values.