Gov. Beverly Perdue selected a garnet-red formal gown for her Inaugural Ball, which took place Jan. 10, at the Raleigh Convention Center.

The governor has donated the silk gown, matching shoes and earrings to the N.C. Museum of History in Raleigh. The items are on view in the exhibit, "Elected to Serve: North Carolina's Governors."

Traditionally, the Museum of History acquires inaugural gowns from the state's first ladies. However, this year marks the first time a governor's inaugural gown will be added to the museum collection.

Perdue chose Lynda Narron Bunn of Bailey to design the gown of double-layered, beaded silk chiffon that is complemented by a sheer organza yoke and straight sleeves.

In addition to the inaugural gown, the museum acquired another "first" -- the tuxedo that North Carolina's "First Gentleman" wore to the Inaugural Ball. Perdue's husband, Robert W. "Bob" Eaves Jr., donated the black tuxedo with black satin lapels he wore while accompanying his wife to the celebratory event. The tuxedo is on view in the exhibit as well.

Admission is free.

For more information about the museum, call (919) 807-7900 or visit ncmuseumofhistory.org. The museum is located at 5 E. Edenton St., across from the State Capitol. Parking is available in the lot across Wilmington Street.