Though everyone was excited about the upcoming wedding, the day of celebration became a bittersweet event.

“Virginia was stricken ill shortly before the wedding,” DeWitt said, “and she was left in a comatose state. So the wedding was very emotional. I remember how Virginia was worried that I would feel obligated to wear her gown but I wasn’t. I was honored and thrilled to do so. She taught second grade at Pendleton Elementary for over 40 years and was loved by everyone. Virginia was a wonderful lady.”

In a glass case near the bridal gown exhibit are Valentine’s Day cards that Virginia DeWitt collected through the years. Hundreds cards date back to her youth and continue through her years an an elementary teacher.

If you go

Where: Pendleton Historical Museum, Falls Park

What: Bridal display, including gowns, photos, announcements

Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays only