Each week during the Here Comes the Bride exhibit, the history of one of the dresses will be featured on the website and social media. Visit these dresses and more in person from June 2 through August 12, 2023, at the David L. Pierce Art & History Center. Exhibit hours will be listed below the article.
This dress was worn by Patricia Brodin (b. 1937) at her marriage to Marvin Benson (1936-2022) on February 23, 1957. The two West Aurora High School graduates (class of 1955) married at Wesley Methodist Church. Pat was a niece of Harry Stoner, who owned a major vending machine company and developed Northgate Shopping Center. At the time of their marriage, Marvin was serving in the U.S. Air Force, stationed at Ramsey Air Force Base in Puerto Rico.
The couple enjoyed 65 years of marriage and were blessed with four children, eight grandchildren, and four great grandchildren. Marvin passed away last year. The beautifully-decorated gown of parchment satin and rosepoint lace features long sleeves, a wide skirt, and long train. The dress, along with the veil and garter, was donated to the Aurora Historical Society by the Benson Family in 2022.
