1983.88.4; Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum
Red Cross Nurse Uniform
Artifact ID1983.88.4
Object Type
Dress, Uniform, Occupational
Maker
Hoover Uniforms
Date
ca. 1973
Medium
cotton, thread, plastic, metal
DimensionsOverall H 39 in x W 29 1/2 in (99.1 cm x 74.9 cm )
Physical DescriptionA blue and white vertically stripped knee length dress displays two red and white patches. One is above the proper left breast pocket, and the other is on the proper left short sleeve. A vertical row of shiny white buttons is stitched down the front of the dress. A matching sash is buttoned and tied around the waist.Historical NoteIn 1917, Mimosa Gates Pittman, wife of Nevada Senator Key Pittman, founded the Senate Ladies Red Cross Unit which later became known as the Senate Ladies, a group made up of the wives of senators. The Second Lady was President of the group, mirroring her husband’s role as President of the Senate. Upon her husband’s sudden nomination as Vice President, Second Lady Betty Ford had to quickly get this Red Cross uniform made for her new position.Additional Details
Custodial History NoteFirst Lady Betty Ford donated the item to the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library and Museum in 1983.
Credit LineGift of First Lady 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.
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