THE FIRST LADIES ARE THE FIRST LEADERS.
THEY SET THE STANDARD.
Inspiring. Empowering. Educating.
The National First Ladies Library & Museum partners with the First Ladies National Historic Site in Canton, Ohio, to preserve, promote, and educate about the significant role and contributions of our nation’s First Ladies, inspiring young leaders by telling the story of American history uniquely through the eyes of the First Ladies.
LET OUR AMERICAN ICONS INSPIRE YOUR DESTINY.
The impact of the First Ladies on our nation is indisputable. Their historic firsts set precedents. Their selfless dedication to causes larger than themselves creates indelible legacies. Our mission is to tell the stories of the profound contributions of these remarkable First Ladies and empower a new generation of leaders to follow in their footsteps.
Below are some of our First Ladies' important causes.
How will they inspire YOU to make our nation a better place?
PRESERVATION
CANCER AWARENESS
CHILD WELFARE
DRUG PREVENTION
EDUCATION & ARTS
JOBS & HOUSING
MENTAL HEALTH
VETERAN SUPPORT
VOLUNTEERISM
EXPERIENCE THE FIRST LADIES NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE
The Saxton-McKinley House
331 S. Market Ave., Canton, Ohio 44702
The Saxton-McKinley house was built in 1842 and is the last remaining home with direct ties to Ida and William McKinley in their hometown of Canton, Ohio. Ida Saxton McKinley was born and raised in the home, which later served as the primary residence for Mr. and Mrs. McKinley from 1878 to 1891 while William served in the United States House of Representatives. The couple also spent time in this home when they were in Canton during President McKinley's terms in office. The Saxton-McKinley House has been meticulously restored to its Victorian splendor for guests to enjoy.
The Visitor Center and National First Ladies Library & Museum
205 Market Ave. S., Canton, Ohio 44702
The Visitor Center and Museum (housed in the former City National Bank building) hosts a several exhibit galleries, a Victorian theater, a children's interactive zone, a research library, conference and seminar rooms, archival storage and processing rooms, and administrative offices. Here, visitors can explore the legacies of our nation's First Ladies and enjoy featured exhibits that take a deeper dive into their contributions to American history.
ENGAGE WITH US
First Ladies on the Page Book Club
May 27, 2027 7:00pm - 8:00pm
VIRTUAL: Join a virtual staff-led discussion of Founding Mothers by Cokie Roberts and explore the women who helped shape the early United States.
First Ladies for Kids – Meet Martha Washington!
May 30, 2026 11:00am - 11:30am
IN-PERSON: A free, monthly program for children ages 7–10, designed to make history fun, hands-on, and inspiring.
Cookin' with Congress: Drink Like a First Lady
June 3, 2026 7:00pm - 8:00pm
VIRTUAL: Join viral sensation Bennett Rea for a live virtual mixology experience! Discover the favorite drinks of America's First Ladies.
Party in the Park: Dancing Queens
June 11, 2026 6:00pm - 8:00pm
IN-PERSON: Dance the night away with live music, great company, and a festive atmosphere in the beautiful surroundings of First Ladies Park.
Legacy Lecture: Louisa Catherine Adams in America
June 12, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm
VIRTUAL: Experience Louisa Catherine Adams’ life and legacy in this one-woman play by Laura Rocklyn, exploring her years as First Lady, widow, and early women’s rights advocate.
Brushes and Bright Minds
June 13, 2026 11:00am - 12:30pm
IN-PERSON: A free youth paint-and-story event at the National First Ladies Library & Museum – First Ladies Park.
Generously funded by the Stark Community Foundation’s Women’s Fund.
LEAD THE WAY TO THE FUTURE
YOUR SUPPORT MAKES OUR VISION A REALITY.
Our First Ladies are American icons. When you generously give your time, talent, or funds, we can tell the story of American history through their eyes, ensuring that their stories are preserved to inspire the next generation of visionary leaders worldwide.
Memberships and donations support creating engaging exhibits, expanding educational programs, maintaining our historic site, and so much more. Support us today, and see what we can do together!
