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Expanded "The First Ladies at the Smithsonian" Exhibit Opens

March 9, 2010

First Lady Michelle Obama formally presented the gown she wore to the 2009 inaugural balls to the Smithsonian’s First Ladies Collection Tuesday, March 9, during a ceremony at the National Museum of American History. The gown is displayed in the center of a new gallery addition to the museum’s popular exhibition, “The First Ladies at the Smithsonian.” The new gallery, “A First Lady’s Debut,” opened to the public March 10. Read about it here.

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Remarks by First Lady Michelle Obama

March 9, 2010

Thank you, everyone. Thanks so much. Well, clearly, it’s a pleasure and an honor to be here with all of you today.

Let me begin by thanking Secretary Clough for that generous introduction. I want to thank him and his wife Anne for their dedication to the mission of the Smithsonian.

Remarks by Jason Wu, Designer of First Lady Michelle Obama's Inaugural Gown

March 9, 2010

First of all, thank you Dr. Glass for the wonderful introduction. I’d like to thank the Smithsonian for inviting me to be here today. I’d especially like to thank Mrs. Obama for this incredible opportunity. To say that she has changed my life is truly an understatement.

Remarks by Wayne Clough, Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution

March 9, 2010

Thank you, Brent. Mrs. Obama, ladies and gentlemen, good morning. I, too, would like to welcome you to the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History on this special occasion. 

Related photos: 

Preparing the Gowns for the First Ladies Exhibition (Michelle Obama inaugural gown donation)

First Lady Michelle Obama's inaugural gown is the centerpiece of the newly expanded exhibition. Take a behind-the-scenes look at the making of the National Museum of American History's First Ladies exhibition, featuring Michelle Obama's inaugural gown designed by Jason Wu.

Related fact sheets: 

National Museum of American History

04/01/2012

Interim Director: Marc Pachter
Total Full-Time Employees: 196
FY 2012 Federal Budget: $15 million

Links: 

 The National Museum of American History Press Room
 
 

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