Dress, Beige Net - Anne McMath

Object number2015.036.01

MediumBeige Net, Gold Underlay, Pearls, Sequins

Credit LineOld State House Museum Collection

Terms

DescriptionA strapless dress worn by former First Lady Anne McMath. This dress is a beige colored strapless dress made of layers of netting and gold underlay. The dress has several appliques of bows and flowers which are beaded with pearls and sequins. The bodice has a large bow applique. The tag states that the dress was purchased from Harvey Berin and designed by Karen Stark.

Originally from Slate Spring, Mississippi, Sarah Anne Phillips attended the Mississippi State College for Women until health problems prevented her from finishing. She met Sidney Sanders McMath in Washington, D.C. during World War II through mutual friends. The couple became married on October 6, 1944. When the war was over, the McMaths moved to Hot Springs, Arkansas. When Sid McMath became governor in 1949, the McMaths became the initial First Family to occupy the home that is now known as the Governor’s Mansion. Anne McMath faced numerous challenges during her time as a First Lady. Not only did she have to manage the duties of being First Lady and preparing the new governor’s house for occupancy, she also had to raise a very young family-- the McMaths’ youngest son was born the same year Governor McMath took office!

Status

Not on view

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