The theme is Bridal Gowns from 1840 to 1930, although the earliest on display is actually from 1834.
This oldest gown was originally made in Lincolnshire, UK, as a ball gown, then later worn for an 1834 wedding.
It features a bright pink ribbon and net overskirt, which were fashionable at the time.
It’s more than just a dress, it has an interesting backstory.
When the donor of the dress’ mother was to be married in 1943, it was wartime and there was no material for a dress.
The attic was searched and a box of her great-grandmother’s gowns was discovered.
This was one of those gowns.
With alterations to the 18-inch waist, it became a wedding dress.
Another of the sisters wore the same outfit, with further waist alterations, at her wedding in 1950.
The latest wedding dress in the exhibition was worn in 1927.
It is exquisite, ankle-length, and made of fine silk satin overlaid with net that is heavily embroidered in metallic thread.
There are 26 beautiful vintage wedding gowns on display. Several have bustles.
Most of them are made of silk and have become cream due to natural oxidisation where aged silk fibres react with oxygen in the air.
The three pure white gowns are made from cotton, and there are also three coloured gowns.
Each is unique, and every one is from the museum’s extensive collection.
The exhibition has been brilliantly curated by conservator Ali Rowe with the assistance of a keen group of Historical Society volunteers.
Although this fine exhibition will be officially opened in May, many visitors have already been in and remarked on its quality.
It promises to be a crowd-pleaser for the next six months or so.
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