Manuscript Collection
Files
Download Finding Aid (326 KB)
Identifier
Accession 519
Inclusive Dates
1948-1980
Restrictions
Open under the rules and regulations of the Louise Pettus Archives and Special Collections
Collection Size
4,500 pieces, 2.25 linear feet
Language
English;
Historical Note
Frankie Welch, born Mary Frances Barnett (1923- ), was a fashion designer and a former Distinguished Visiting Professor of Merchandising and Design in the School of Consumer Science at Winthrop College from 1982 through 1985. She became well-known for designing scarves for many prominent political figures from 1960s to 1990s, a dress design known as “The Frankie,” and a dress worn by First Lady Betty Ford in her official portrait.
Scope and Content Note
The Frankie Welch Papers consists of correspondence, financial records, stock inventories, newspaper clippings, newsletters, monograms and fabrics, correspondence relating to commissioned artwork, designer scarf donations, and business associates of Frankie Welch’s business venture, Frankie Welch of America. The largest part of the collection consists of financial records dealing with the designing and manufacturing of the products made and sold by Frankie Welch of America. Frankie Welch, born Mary Frances Barnett (1923- ), was a fashion designer and a former Distinguished Visiting Professor of Merchandising and Design in the School of Consumer Science at Winthrop College from 1982 through 1985. She became well-known for designing scarves for many prominent political figures from 1960s to 1990s, a dress design known as “The Frankie,” and a dress worn by First Lady Betty Ford in her official portrait.
Provenance
The papers of Frankie Welch, designer, were deposited with the Winthrop University Archives on September 9, 1983, by Ms. Welch.
Copyright
For information concerning copyright please contact the Louise Pettus Archives and Special Collections at Winthrop University.
Finding Aid Citation
Louise Pettus Archives and Special Collections, Winthrop University, "Frankie Welch Papers - Accession 519". Finding Aid 1128.
https://digitalcommons.winthrop.edu/manuscriptcollection_findingaids/1128
LC Subject Headings
Welch, Frankie, 1924-2021--Archives; Frankie Welch of America; Winthrop College--Faculty; Women fashion designers--United States
