Description

Pink and white sleeveless chiffon gown, heavily embellished with silver sequin flowers and covered from the hem to the waist with a black embroidered leaf pattern. The leaves fade out toward the top of the dress, ending in a simple v-neck collar. There is a pink corsage at the right shoulder. This dress was worn by Harriet Shepardson, the wife of Professor George Shepardson who organised and served as head of the Electrical Engineering Department at the University of Minnesota. Ms. Shepardson attended many university events on her husband's arm, and her role as hostess was officially recognized and codified when University President Cyrus Northrop asked her to serve as official hostess at university functions. President Northrop specifically mentioned that she would be a wonderful asset because of the beautiful gowns she frequently appeared in. Harriet Shepardson continued in her role as hostess long after President Northrop retired in 1911. She wore this gown in 1923. The gown was donated in 1963 by Mary Shepardson of Minneapolis.