Center for History Features Bridal Gown Worn by Alma Muessel
July 6, 2012 — On view at the Center for History June 5-August 26 is the bridal gown worn by Alma Elinor Muessel at her wedding to J. Leslie Sailors, which took place on June 9, 1909.
The gown of ivory duchess satin has a “pouter pigeon” silhouette, enhanced
with semi-circular padding at the underarms. It features a high collar of
tucked silk. The front has a long Brussels lace panel which ends in an
inverted V. Shirred sleeves have appliqued lace on the cuffs. The back
closure has a decorative fastener.
The gown was recently restored by Harold Mailand of Indianapolis. The restoration was made possible by the generous donors to the Center for History’s Costume Restoration Fund.
Alma Muessel Sailors was born February 6, 1889, in South Bend and was a life-long area resident. She was a member of First Church of Christ Scientist, the Mother church of Boston, and Phi Sigma Sorority. A graduate of the former South Bend High School, she attended Oberlin College. Alma lived past her 100th birthday.
Serving as guest curators for the costume exhibit are Pat Potts, Sharon
Deneen and Norma Lu Meehan. They have served in this capacity for several
Center for History exhibits.
The Center for History is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday – Saturday, and noon
to 5 p.m. on Sunday. Admission is free/members, $8/adults, $6.50/seniors and $5/youth 6-17.
For information, call (574) 235-9664 or visit www.centerforhistory.org
