Era of Elegance

The Kirkman House Museum will open March 1 with an exhibit of dresses donated by pioneer Walla Walla families. Many of these families came by wagon train to Walla Walla in the 1850’s - 1860’s and after making their fortune with cattle, wheat or in the gold fields of California or Idaho were able to enjoy the opulent period of 1880’s to 1910’s. These dresses exemplify that period of time with their 18-inch waist and abundance of lace, velvet and silk. The Stine Hotel and the Keylor-Grand Opera House were just two places in Walla Walla to wear these outfits. The Kirkmans, who moved into their grand house in 1880, were part of this era of elegance.

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The museum is proud to display our collection of over 20 dresses and other accouterments most of which have never been on display before. Join us Friday, March 2 from 5pm to 7pm for the opening reception of this exhibit.

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