This gorgeous gown was worn in 1913 for the celebration of the golden wedding anniversary of Catherine Mary (neé Grant) and Robert Kirkpatrick Simpson.

Made from black silk taffeta with an asymmetrical black lace overlay, it has gold lace features on the skirt, bodice and sleeves to symbolise the occasion. The dress has further embellishment with a row of silk bobbles on the square neckline, sleeves and skirt. Its belted waist is accentuated with a rosette on the front and lace medallions and covered buttons on the back, while the skirt is slightly longer in length at the back creating a graceful train.

More than 200 guests celebrated their fiftieth anniversary at Closeburn, the Simpson family home in Bonny Glen, Marton. The event was reported widely in regional newspapers; ‘There were friends from far and near and numerous relations present, who all heartily congratulated the aged but active couple.’

Two large marquees were erected in the gardens and the Marton Brass Band played. A four-tier wedding cake was decorated with the carefully preserved violets that Mrs Simpson had worn on her wedding day.

The couple had married at the Turakina Presbyterian Church on 19 February 1863 when Catherine was 19 and Robert 26 years old. They had ten children (eight boys and two girls) and have many descendants in the Whanganui region.

By Trish Nugent-Lyne, Pou Tiaki/Collections & Curatorial Lead at Whanganui Regional Museum.

Wedding anniversary gown, 1913
Designer and maker unknown
Made from lace and silk
Donated by Mrs Christina Ward, great granddaughter of Catherine
WRM 2022.30.1

Photographed by Kathy Greensides

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