Date/Time
Date(s) - 12/21/24 - 12/22/24
11:00 am - 4:00 pm
Location
1 Canal Street
Seneca Falls, New York 13148
Categories
NATIONAL WOMEN’S HALL OF FAME UNVEILS NEW EXHIBIT:
“DIRTY LAUNDRY AND OTHER WOMEN’S WORK” BY JULIE THURBER
Visitors Can Explore the Hidden Histories of Women Through Vintage Undergarments and Reflect on the Societal Norms That Shaped Their Lives
The National Women’s Hall of Fame is proud to announce the opening of their newest exhibit, “Dirty Laundry and Other Women’s Work” by artist Julie Thurber. The exhibit will be on display from September 13, 2024, through January 4, 2025, at their location in the historic Seneca Falls Knitting Mill.
Inspired by the discovery of a vintage slip at a flea market, Thurber’s work delves into the untold stories of women from the Civil War era through the mid-20th century. Through this collection, visitors are invited to explore the hidden histories of women who were often expected to keep their experiences—and their struggles—out of sight.
“From the Civil War through the middle of the 20th century, so much of a woman’s experience was intended to be kept out of view, lest she or her family be shamed,” says Thurber. “Women had been ingrained to be submissive, question their own voices, and prize appearance.”
“Dirty Laundry and Other Women’s Work” features 20 vintage undergarments, each piece a testament to the lives of women who might have worn them. The exhibit encourages visitors to engage with the tactile history of these garments and reflect on the societal norms that confined women in the past—and to consider the ‘dirty laundry’ we might still need to address today.
“Julie Thurber’s work is a poignant reminder of the resilience of women throughout history,“ adds Karen A. Macier, Interim Director of the National Women’s Hall of Fame. “This exhibit not only shines a light on the private struggles of the past but also challenges us to examine our present. We are thrilled to host this compelling and thought-provoking display.”
The National Women’s Hall of Fame invites all to attend the opening of this exhibit and explore the layers of history, identity and societal expectations woven into the fabric of women’s lives.
For more information, please visit www.womenofthehall.org. The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday, 11am – 4pm.


