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Esse Purse Museum & Store: A Stitch in Time

Explore a century of women's history through handbags at Little Rock's Esse Purse Museum, a unique journey into fashion, culture, and society.

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The Esse Purse Museum & Store in Little Rock, Arkansas, is a unique cultural gem showcasing the evolution of the 20th-century American woman through the lens of her handbag. One of only a few purse museums worldwide, it offers a compelling glimpse into history, fashion, and feminine identity.

A brief summary to Esse Purse Museum & Store

  • Tuesday 11 am-4 pm
  • Wednesday 11 am-4 pm
  • Thursday 11 am-4 pm
  • Friday 11 am-4 pm
  • Saturday 11 am-4 pm
  • Sunday 11 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during the week for a less crowded experience.
  • Check the museum's website for information on temporary exhibits.
  • Allow at least one hour to fully explore the museum.
  • Browse the museum store for unique, handcrafted souvenirs.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the North Little Rock city center, walk south towards Main Street. Turn right onto Main Street and continue for about 1 mile. The Esse Purse Museum & Store will be on your left at 1510 Main St. Look for the distinct signage that marks the entrance.

  • Public Transport

    From any location in North Little Rock, find the nearest bus stop serviced by the Rock Region Metro. Board a bus heading towards Little Rock and ensure the route stops at Main Street. Alight at the Main Street stop and walk south for about 0.3 miles. The museum will be on your left at 1510 Main St. A single fare for Rock Region Metro is $1.25.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    From downtown Little Rock, a taxi or ride-share to the Esse Purse Museum will take approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay around $10-$15 for the ride.

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Discover more about Esse Purse Museum & Store

Step into the Esse Purse Museum & Store and embark on a fascinating journey through the 20th century, exploring the lives of American women as reflected in their handbags. Founded by Anita Davis, the museum's name, derived from the Latin 'esse' meaning 'to be', encapsulates the idea that a purse is more than just an accessory; it's an extension of a woman's personal space and essence. The museum's permanent exhibit, 'What's Inside: A Century of Women and Handbags 1900–1999,' presents a captivating display of handbags and their contents, arranged decade by decade. Each display case offers a glimpse into the styles, trends, and social changes that shaped women's lives throughout the century. From the clutch bags of the early 1900s to the larger, more practical purses of the war years and the pop art-inspired designs of the 1960s, the exhibit showcases the evolving role of women in society. Beyond the permanent exhibit, the Esse Purse Museum also hosts temporary exhibits that explore various aspects of women's history and culture. The museum store offers a curated selection of handbags, jewelry, scarves, books, and other unique items, many handcrafted by local, national, and international artisans. Housed in a historic building in Little Rock's South Main (SoMa) district, the Esse Purse Museum has become a cultural hub and a testament to the power of fashion as a reflection of history and identity.

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