DRESS
CultureCanada
Date1930s
Dimensions115 x 83 cm (45 1/4 x 32 11/16 in.)
Object numberHF.2018.18.1
DescriptionA white dress made with synthetic fabric. The bottom of the dress has a thick boarder of inset lace 12cm above the bottom hem. The torso of the dress has a row of 13 fabric covered buttons from the waist to the collar. The neck has a pointed collar 7 cm wide. The front of the torso has two parallel darts at the waist, as well as two horizontal darts near the bust on opposite sides. The right side of the waist has an insert 20cm long zipper at the seam. The back of the torso features two parallel darts at the back of the waist. Each sleeve is folded upward to form a cuff. Some of the seams on the interior of the dress are unfinished. Narrative
Catherine Hennessey (nee. Smith) was the first executive director of the PEI Museum and Heritage Foundation in the 1970s, and served the position for 10 years. In 2000, Catherine was awarded an Order of Canada, which recognizes outstanding achievement, dedication to the community and service to the nation.
Catherine is the eldest of four sisters born to Isadora and Linus Smith and raised in Charlottetown, PEI. Catherine trained as a dental hygienist after being dissuaded by her mother from studying architecture. Her work as a dental hygienist took her throughout PEI and increased her appreciation for the province's landscape. Her interest for architecture continued however, and Catherine began work with local architect Alfred Hennessy. The two married in 1971 and stayed so for 17 years. After their marriage ended, the two remained close friends. In the 1960s-70s, Catherine was involved with a group of volunteers who worked to advocate for the protection of the Island's natural, cultural, and built heritage. Catherine has continued this work throughout her professional career and personal life.
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