DRESS
Date1971
Dimensions100 x 73 cm (39 3/8 x 28 3/4 in.)
Object numberHF.2018.18.3
DescriptionA dress with pink, green and blue floral pattern throughout. The dress has a short slit at the bottom center of the skirt with an over-crossing seam running up to the center of the waist. The bodice has two parallel dart at the front center as well as horizontal darts on either side of the bust. The dress has a high neckline and short sleeves. The reverse of the dress has two parallel darts at the waist as well as a pink zipper, 55 cm long. A label is sewn into the interior back-left, with “Seta Haute Couture” at the center. The dress is unlined other then a short inner lining around the interior neckline. 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 appreciated 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 stayed 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.
On July 4, 1973, Beaconsfield Historic House was officially opened by Her Royal Highness Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip. As the Executive Director, Catherine Hennessey greeted the royal couple, wearing this dress, and toured them through the house and grounds. See related object: HF.73.350.1, XHF.2024.1.12.1-5 - photos of the royal visit to Beaconsfield.
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