Exclusive Exhibit: Historic Wedding Gowns & Firearms

A Unique Display from the RCHS Collection

Step into history at the Lincoln-Tallman Museum with this extraordinary exhibit featuring more than 40 wedding gowns and over 50 firearms. This collection is a captivating exploration of style, craftsmanship, and innovation across centuries.

Wedding Gowns That Tell Remarkable Stories

Discover wedding gowns and accessories that span nearly a century, from 1838 to 1927. These custom-made dresses showcase a kaleidoscope of colors, styles, and cultural influences. Each gown has a story – many belonged to families with deep ties to Rock County.

Just a few highlights include the dark purple bustled and ruffled gown worn by Helen Green Sayre in 1880, and the stunning ivory satin wedding dress and blue velvet cape of Harriet Bostwick Carle from 1893.

These historic gowns are elegantly displayed throughout the beautiful Lincoln-Tallman Museum, adding charm and atmosphere to this one-of-a-kind exhibit.

Rare Guns of the 1800s: Tools of Settlers, Scoundrels, and Soldiers

Explore a remarkable collection of over 50 firearms, many unseen for more than 30 years. From flintlocks and blunderbusses to pepperboxes and percussion revolvers, this display illustrates the rapid evolution of gun technology during the 19th century.

Highlights include two locally made shotguns and cased sets of ornately embellished pistols which were most often used at sporting events. This collection offers a unique glimpse into the tools that were essential to early settlers and soldiers, and misused by outlaws.

Don’t miss this unforgettable journey through history. Reserve your tickets today!

Truly a one-of-a-kind collection that includes some extremely rare pieces that can’t be seen anywhere else in the state!
David Stavlo, Owner, Lodgewood Manufacturing, Janesville, WI

Exhibit Details

Tour Dates & Times:

• Grand Opening: February 20, 5 – 7 p.m.
• Regular Hours: Thursdays through Sundays, February 21 – March 16, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
• Location: RCHS Campus:
• Visit the Gowns at the Lincoln-Tallman Museum, 440 N. Jackson
• Visit the Guns at the RCHS Museum, 426 N. Jackson
• Special Tours: Contact RCHS at 608-756-4509 for more information!

Tickets:

• $15 for adults
• Children 12 and under: FREE
• Tickets grant access on any tour day. Purchase online (below) or at the door.

Special Thanks to Our Exhibit Sponsors

Diamond Level Gowns Sponsors

Honoring James & Vera Stillmank
Founders of Vera’s House of Bridals
Given by Linda Stillmank Pierson & Robert Pierson