Tying the Knot is open now at the Kelley House Museum
Travel back in time and down the aisle at the Kelley House Museum during “Tying the Knot: Bridal Fashion Unveiled,” which opens June 4, 2026 and runs through August 31, 2026. This exhibit features archival photographs, artwork, and seven pieces of historic clothing worn by Mendocino brides from the mid-1860s to 1978. This exhibit showcases evolving trends in bridal styles: from a woman’s “Sunday best” dress to sequins and lace, from bright colors to pure white. You’ll even learn about a few Mendocino love stories along the way!
“Tying the Knot” would not be possible without decades of hard work from Kelley House curators and archivists. The Kelley House archive – nicknamed “The Vault” – is a climate-controlled archive that stores historic clothing, photographs, documents, and objects. Historic clothing is extremely delicate, and Kelley House staff and volunteers work to maintain the historic and physical integrity of the clothing. Visitors will learn about the challenges of exhibiting historic clothing and are encouraged to view the online archival collection to learn more about the 10,000+ items preserved in The Vault!
Some of the dresses featured in “Tying the Knot” have never been exhibited at the Kelley House, and they will return to the archive afterwards! Come view this beautiful exhibit from June 4 to August 31, 2026, and join us on Saturday, June 13th at 4pm for the opening reception, featuring a presentation from Kelley House Curator Averee McNear on caring for and exhibiting historic clothing in museums and archives. RSVP is available on the Kelley House website.
The Kelley House Museum is open Thursday-Monday, 11am-3pm. Summer walking tour season is here! For a tour schedule, visit the Kelley House event calendar.