DRESS
CultureCanada
Dimensions122 x 156 cm (48 1/16 x 61 7/16 in.)
Object numberHF.2018.18.2
DescriptionAn off-white coloured wedding dress with eyelet pattern and tulle underskirt. The skirt is full with three layers (inner, tulle, outer) and is tea length. The skirt attaches to the bodice at the waist with a thin, horizontal cord. The bodice is lined with a cream coloured satin and features two parallel darts at the front and a dart of each side of the bust. The neckline is wide and the dress has short sleeves. The reverse of the dress has a metal zipper which runs from the back of the neck to below the waist with an eye hook at the top edge. At the waist is an off-white bow, stitches onto the left side of the zipper and connects to the right side with a silver, circular snap. Wide fabric loops are stitched into each of the interior underarm. 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. Catherine wore this dress when she and Alfred married in 1971. They divorced 17 years later but 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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