Lady with a Past

After the doll show in Washington DC was over, we did some sightseeing.  I have always wanted to see the First Ladies Exhibit at the Smithsonian, and it was fabulous!  This picture is of one of Mary Todd Lincoln's gowns, made by her dressmaker and personal confident, Elizabeth Keckley. It is purple velvet, with all seams piped in white satin.  It consists of a skirt, and bodice.  Actually there were two bodices, one for day and one for evening.  Also pictured is the Lincoln china used during their administration.