Marian Passafume is pictured in her wedding dress in 1954. The dress will be featured in the lobby of the LaPorte County Historical Society Museum during the “With This Ring …” display June through August.
(Click on photos to enlarge)
You are cordially invited to attend the new wedding display at the LaPorte County Historical Society Museum. For the months of June, July and August, the Historical Society will be featuring mid-century wedding gowns in an exhibit entitled “With This Ring … .” The dresses on display will be from the 1940s, ’50s, ’60s and ’70s. And a 1950s-style wedding reception will be held at the museum on Saturday, June 1.
The history of our country can be examined through wedding fashions. Just when World War II ended and wedding gowns were in vogue once more, along came the 1950s with huge hoop skirts and tiny waists, giving brides a Cinderella silhouette. Fairy-tale weddings were proof that the economy was good. The ’60s were a simpler time until the Vietnam War, when waistlines became known as “empire” and skirts were “A-line.” Then came the granny gowns of the ’70s and more Empire waistlines — and will we ever forget those strange-colored tuxedos? Also on display will be a few mother-of-the-bride dresses, as well as some bridesmaid dresses.
Wedding photos of LaPorte County couples from the four decades have found a temporary home in Exhibit Hall on the lower level of the museum. Anyone wishing to share a wedding photo may bring it to the museum to be copied and added to the gallery.
1950s-style wedding reception June 1
At 1 p.m. on Saturday, June 1, at the museum, a 1950s-style garden wedding reception will kick off the new display. Cake, punch and tea sandwiches will be served in the meeting room. Weather permitting, there will be outdoor seating on the lawn. Those wearing garden hats will get $1 off the regular museum admission. Take a step back in time and enjoy the gentility of an era not too long ago!
The LaPorte County Historical Society Museum, 2405 Indiana Ave., LaPorte, is open Tuesday through Saturday, 10-4:30. Admission is just a few dollars for adults; kids under 12 enter for free. For more information, call 219-324-6767 or visit www.laportecountyhistory.org. The facility is accessible to those with disabilities.
A vintage wedding card is shown from the archives of the LaPorte County Historical Society.
