About our Founder

Alda Keener Crow, often spelled "Alda Crowe", the “e” being added for extra flair. Alda Crow was a fashion designer who worked with three U.S. First Ladies in the 20th century. She was known for her elegant and feminine designs, which were popular among high-profile clients.

Alda Crow worked with three of the Governor' wives including Carolyn Leonard Hunt, designing custom dresses and outfits for their public appearances. She was particularly known for her use of luxurious fabrics and intricate beading and embroidery. In addition to her work with the First Ladies, Alda Crow designed dresses for a variety of other high-profile clients, including Saks Fifth Avenue, Ivey's, actresses, singers, and socialites. She was based in Lincolnton, North Carolina and was active in the New York fashion industry. Overall, Alda Crow was a talented and influential fashion designer who played a significant role in shaping the style of several First Ladies and other prominent women in the 20th century. In 1970, she and husband John built what is now known as "The Crowe Mansion", a new event venue in Lincolnton, North Carolina. The estate took four years to build and was her pride and passion. Architect Richard Gillespie designed the house to unique specifications of a old looking new home, patterned after The Carter’s Grove Plantation near Williamsburg. It sits off of Highway 150 in Lincoln County.  The Lifetime movie My Stepson, My Lover (also known as Love, Murder, and Deceit) was filmed in part at the mansion.