Artifact No. 1988.1039.14, Frankie Welch Blue and Gold Checkered Organza Gown; Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum (Grand Rapids, MI)
Blue and Gold Checkered Organza Gown
Artifact ID1988.1039.14
Object Type
Gown, Evening
Designer
Frankie Welch
(American, 1924 - 2021)
Date
ca. 1974
Medium
fabric, thread, metal, ruffle
DimensionsOverall H 58 in x W 25 in (147.3 cm x 63.5 cm )
Physical DescriptionA floor-length A-line style organza gown displays a blue and sparkly gold checkerboard pattern throughout the fabric. Its cuffs and hem are decorated by ruffles. Opaque fabric lines the organza.Historical NoteBetty Ford wore this dress during her time as First Lady, including at a state dinner for President Helmut Schmidt of West Germany on December 5, 1974.Additional Details
Custodial History NoteThe item was a gift from a member of the general public to First Lady Betty Ford during the Ford administration. First Lady Betty Ford donated it to the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library and Museum in 1988.
Credit LineGift of Betty Ford
National Archives Catalog CollectionGerald R. Ford Museum Collection (National Archives Identifier 620931)
National Archives Catalog SeriesArtifacts Relating to the Family of Gerald and Betty Ford (74627970)
Use Restriction Status
Unrestricted
Use Restriction NoteReproduction or other use of these holdings or images thereof is unrestricted.