Portrait of Elizabeth Keckley

Today in History: Elizabeth Keckley

Today in History–November 15–the Library of Congress features Elizabeth Hobbs Keckley, whose emancipation deed was signed on this date in 1855. Although best known for her role as confidante and dressmaker to President Lincoln’s wife, Mary Todd, Keckley was also an author and a generous philanthropist who assisted escapees from southern slavery. Find out more…

Today in History: Conde Nast, Vogue & Clothing Styles

Today in History: Conde Nast, Vogue & Clothing Styles

Today in History–March 26–the Library of Congress features publisher Condé Nast, born on this day in 1874. While working as an advertising executive for Collier’s, Nast created the concept of magazines based on targeted groups of readers. In 1909 he purchased Vogue and five years later created Vanity Fair. Learn more about American clothing styles by visiting the Today in History section, then click the…