Every girl loves to buy shoes. We may not seem crazy on the outside, but confronted with a fun shoe or slipper, we may giggle erratically or jump in the air. Shoes have always been important to people, and finding interesting old shoes can be exciting. This week’s Exhibit Highlight is an example of a beautiful old shoe that some lucky woman once wore.
On display in the Common Indecency Exhibit is a lovely pair of white satin slippers, donated to the Historical Society in 1915 by Agnes Park. Agnes was an important member of the Andover community, and she lived from 1845-1922. Mrs. Park was from a long line of Park family members, who first settled in Cambridge, Massachusetts c. 1595.
Agnes held many positions over the years in Andover, including helping out at the Historical Society, where she was the first official secretary. She was also the secretary for the Abbot Academy Alumnae Association for over forty years, and had other duties including Chair of the Advisory Committee and an active member of the school committee. Agnes was born in Andover at the family home at 173 Main Street, as the daughter of an eminent scholar of the Andover Theological Seminary, Professor Park. She was always a help to the town and loved being involved with the Historical Society.
The slippers are delicate and well preserved, and well as being stunning to look at. Agnes probably spent many evenings dancing in them, and they are a wonderful addition to the collection.
Tags: Clothing, Exhibit Highlight, slippers