It was a day to remember, a day of joy and celebration as Eleanor Roosevelt, the first lady of the United States, tied the knot with Franklin D. Roosevelt, her distant cousin, and the 32nd president of the United States. On March 17, 1905, the couple exchanged vows in a private ceremony held at the bride's family home in New York City.

The wedding was an intimate affair attended by close family members and a few friends. Despite being a public figure, Eleanor had managed to keep the details of her wedding a secret from the press. However, a few days after the ceremony, a photograph of the newlyweds taken on their wedding day was published in the newspapers, making it one of the most iconic wedding photos of all time.

Today, more than a century later, the Eleanor Roosevelt wedding photo continues to captivate us with its timeless beauty and historical significance. In this article, we will take a closer look at the photo and explore its various aspects, including the attire, the setting, and the emotions captured in the image.

The Attire

As we gaze upon the Eleanor Roosevelt wedding photo, one of the first things that catch our attention is the attire of the bride and groom. Eleanor is seen wearing a simple, yet elegant gown made of white silk. The dress was designed by the famous French couturier, Madame Louise Chéruit, who was known for her exquisite taste and attention to detail.

The dress features a high collar and long sleeves, which were the fashion of the time. The skirt is full and flowing, with a small train that follows behind the bride as she walks. Eleanor's veil is made of fine tulle and is held in place by a small wreath of orange blossoms, a symbol of purity and fertility.

Franklin, on the other hand, is attired in a formal morning suit, which was the customary dress for a groom at that time. The suit is made of black wool and features a tailcoat, a waistcoat, and striped trousers. He completes his ensemble with a top hat and a pair of gloves, making him look every bit the dashing groom.

The Setting

The Eleanor Roosevelt wedding photo was taken at the bride's family home at 56 West 37th Street in New York City. The house was a grand four-story brownstone that had been in the Roosevelt family for several years. The photo captures the newlyweds standing on the staircase leading up to the second floor.

The setting is simple yet elegant, with the walls adorned with paintings and the staircase decorated with flowers and greenery. The lighting is soft and diffused, giving the photo a warm and inviting feel. The couple is seen standing close together, their hands clasped, and their eyes fixed on each other, lost in their own world of love and happiness.

The Emotions

Perhaps the most remarkable aspect of the Eleanor Roosevelt wedding photo is the emotions it captures. The photo tells a story of two people deeply in love, embarking on a journey of life together. The couple is seen smiling, their faces radiating with joy and happiness.

Eleanor's expression is particularly noteworthy, as it captures her youthful exuberance and infectious spirit. Her smile is wide, and her eyes are sparkling, conveying a sense of excitement and anticipation for the future. Franklin, on the other hand, looks calm and composed, his eyes fixed on his bride, as if nothing else in the world matters.

The photo is a testament to the enduring power of love and the beauty of marriage. It reminds us that, despite the passage of time, the emotions and feelings captured in the photo are as alive today as they were on that day in 1905.

The Legacy

The Eleanor Roosevelt wedding photo has become an iconic image that has captured the hearts and minds of people around the world. It has been reproduced countless times in books, magazines, and newspapers, and has been the subject of numerous articles, essays, and scholarly works.

But more than that, the photo has become a symbol of hope and inspiration for generations of women around the world. Eleanor Roosevelt was a trailblazer, a woman who defied convention and shattered stereotypes, and her wedding photo is a testament to her courage and determination.

Today, as we look back at the Eleanor Roosevelt wedding photo, we are reminded of the power of love, the beauty of marriage, and the importance of breaking down barriers and fighting for what we believe in. We are reminded that, no matter how difficult the journey may be, we can always find the strength and courage to overcome the obstacles in our path.