The National Women’s Hall of Fame is pleased to announce its much-anticipated reopening to the public on May 25, 2024. Following opening day, the museum will welcome visitors every Tuesday through Saturday from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm.
The reopening of the National Women’s Hall of Fame coincides with the completion of the latest phase of construction at the historic 1844 Seneca Knitting Mill, the Hall’s home. The renovated space will offer visitors an enhanced experience as they explore the rich history and achievements of remarkable women. From July 12 through August 23, the Hall will host a special exhibit from the Smithsonian called “Voices and Votes: Democracy in America.” To commemorate this milestone, a community celebration and ribbon-cutting ceremony is scheduled for July, and additional information will be forthcoming.
For its reopening on May 25, the Hall will offer free admission to visitors (donations are encouraged). While upper floors currently remain closed to the general public until the Smithsonian exhibit opening, a 1pm building tour led by CEO Jennifer Gabriel will allow guests to experience the improvements made over the past year.
“We are thrilled to welcome visitors back to the National Women’s Hall of Fame as we continue our work to honor the contributions of extraordinary women throughout history,” said Jennifer Gabriel, CEO of the National Women’s Hall of Fame. “The reopening marks the culmination of our efforts to create an engaging and inclusive space where visitors can learn, reflect, and be inspired by the remarkable achievements of women.”
The National Women’s Hall of Fame is also pleased to announce that Nellie Ludemann has joined the team as Museum and Community Relations Manager. Ludemann most recently served as Executive Director of the Seneca Falls Historical Society, where she was Educator/Program Coordinator for three years before her promotion in 2022. Ludemann’s experience also includes work with the Buffalo History Museum, the Albany Institute of History and Art, and the Howland Stone Store Museum. She holds master’s degrees in museum studies and curriculum and instruction.
“As I join the National Women’s Hall of Fame, I am dedicated to crafting a meaningful experience that resonates with each individual who walks through the doors,” Ludemann said. “Through engaging exhibits and compelling narratives, we will ignite curiosity and inspire action as we forge deep connections with the remarkable Inductees whose stories empower us all.”
The museum’s reopening and the upcoming Smithsonian exhibit are part of a long-range strategic plan adopted by the Board of Directors in 2023. That plan calls for continued renovation and restoration work at the Seneca Knitting Mill; once complete, the building will encompass four floors and 16,000 square feet of exhibit and gathering spaces, thanks in part to a $500,000 earmark in recent legislation championed by NY Senators Chuck Schumer and Kristin Gillibrand.
As plans for the next phase of construction begin, the Hall will continue efforts to build its reputation, visibility, and funding streams regionally and nationally. The most recent Induction Ceremony, held in New York City for the second time in the organization’s history, achieved its goal of expanding the base of supporters and attracting national attention to Seneca Falls.
“Now, more than ever, as our nation continues its journey towards equality and empowerment, the reopening of the Hall serves as a beacon of hope and resilience,” said Board president and 2015 Inductee Jean Kilbourne. “As we welcome visitors back, we invite them to immerse themselves in stories of courage, perseverance, and triumph.”
To stay up to date on exhibit and program plans, please visit womenofthehall.org and join our e-newsletter list. To arrange a group visit, call 315-568-8060.
Media Contact: Elizabeth Romaine
eromaine@vaultcommunications.com