5. Saving Washington and The Billie Jean King Archive at the Center for Women’s History at the New-York Historical Society

Dress belonging to Dolley Madison at the Joyce B. Cowin Women’s History Gallery at the New-York Historical Society. 

The New-York Historical Society’s Center for Women’s History features several temporary exhibitions and permanent installations to celebrate the contributions women have made to the nation even before they were given the right to vote. The Joyce B. Cowin Women’s History Gallery’s very first exhibition, Saving Washington, puts a spotlight on the women of the early republic. Of particular importance is Dolley Madison, who saved the portrait of George Washington during the burning of the White House in 1814. The exhibition is curated by Sarah Gordon, Jeanne Gutierrez, Sarah Litvin, Laura Mogulescu, Valerie Paley, and Alisa Wade, and features documents, clothing, jewelry, and interactive installations.

The Billie Jean King Archive at the Center for Women’s History at the New-York Historical Society.

Also on display at the Center for Women’s History is The Billie Jean King Archive, which features items donated by the tennis champion and activist in 2016, including clothing, rackets, and images accumulated over her life of advocating for equal rights for women on and off the tennis court. Included in the installation is the New York Daily News front page reporting her famous win over Bobby Riggs in the “Battle of the Sexes” in 1973.

Visit any of these New York City exhibitions to celebrate the groundbreaking achievements of women this summer. Next, check out the 18 Outdoor Art Installations Not to Miss in NYC in August in 2017.