Identity elements
Reference code
Name and location of repository
Level of description
Item
Title
D89459-4
Date(s)
- 1955-03-21 (Creation)
Extent
Name of creator
Content and structure elements
Scope and content
A masked model in a one piece swimsuit stands next to a plywood panel labelled "Sizing Up Mrs. Tacoma". The 1955 Tacoma Home Show had an added feature- a contest to find the perfect Mrs. Tacoma Housewife. Contestants had to be between 18 and 35, married, have at least one child and be Pierce County residents for at least 6 months. They were judged on "housewifely arts," poise, charm and appearance. Finalists were tested on how quickly they could make a bed, how well they could iron a shirt, and the looks and appearance of their best baked goods. Equally important was how well they had "trained" their husbands, judged by how well the males could change a diaper. Although contest organizers repeatedly stated that height and weight did not matter, Mrs. Tacoma would also need to parade in a swimsuit and high heels. The winner was Mrs. Lowell Doud, the wife of a lumberjack.
Greater Tacoma Home Show (Tacoma); Beauty contests--Tacoma--1950-1960; Bathing beauties; Bathing suits;