Name/Title
Saxton-McKinley HouseEntry/Object ID
2015.4.49Description
Gold plate on brass ornament depicting the Saxton-McKinley House in Canton, Ohio. The ornament is in a navy blue box with the logo of the National First Ladies' Library on the lid of the box in gold. The back of the box shows the logo for the Charleston Mint. There is a small (one inch) white price tag on the lower left corner. The insert reads:
"It's hard to imagine the Saxton-McKinley House as anything but a fine Victorian Mansion. Built in 1841 and expanded in ca. 1865, the family home of First lady Ida Saxton McKinley had deteriorated almost beyond repair when it was saved from demolition by a descendant. Now the beautifully restored building is home to the First Ladies National Historic Site.
The entry hall and formal parlor feature William Morris rugs and wallpaper, which covers both the walls and the ceilings in intricate designs. The formal parlor showcases Ida McKinley's piano as well as her music box. Her portrait hangs above an exquisitely-carved marble fireplace.
Also located on the main floor is the family parlor, including an unusual chandelier, that was re-created with great detail to match an old photograph. The dining room features ornate reproduction wallpaper made in same pattern designed for Ida McKinley for the White House.
A black walnut spiral staircase leads to the second-floor bedrooms and the third-floor ballroom. The third floor features the ballroom, which was used as Ida and William McKinley's living quarters during their tenure, and McKinley's office, where he worked when in Canton. He and Ida lived there between 1873 and his death in 1901.
The Charleston Mint Brevard, NC Made in U.S.A."Collection
ScarmuzziAcquisition
Accession
2015.4.0Source or Donor
Patricia A. ScarmuzziAcquisition Method
Gift