Featured Items

January 2009

Conway Vest

Martin Franklin Conway was the first Kansas Representative to the US Congress in 1861. This silk vest that once belonged to Conway was a gift from Conway’s great-grand-niece to the Dole Archives. Conway was born November 19, 1827 and died February 15, 1882.
   

February 2009

Senator Dole's Elephant Collection

The elephant has been the symbol of the Republican party for well over one hundred years. In honor of his long-time service to the party, Senator Dole was the recipient of many elephant statues, sculptures and pieces art. During the month of February, White Glove Tour guests were able to see a special display featuring many of these special elephants!

March 2009

Presidential signing pens

When Presidents sign new legislation, they use several pens, which are given to people who were influential in helping to pass the legislation. Senator Dole has multiple Presidential signing pens from several presidents. These pens represent the variety of causes for which Senator Dole fought. During the March White Glove Tours, visitors were able to see a display of part of Senator Dole's collection of Presidential signing pens and their accompanying letters.

April through June 2009

Political Pins and Buttons

The first American political buttons originated with George Washington. A brass clothing button reading "G.W.--Long Live the President" was worn at his inauguration. But the golden age of political buttons was 1896-1916 when many colorful pins were made.  During the past 100 years, buttons with  candidate's names and slogans have been used to promote political candidates.  The Dole Institute has hundreds of political buttons from the campaigns of Senator Dole and others.