A Look Back: Unveiling Edmond’s Past

Eloise Rodkey (pictured) married Kenneth Rees on October 1, 1940 at her home in Edmond, Oklahoma. Eloise came from a prominent Edmond family, involved in the flour milling industry from 1894 to 1972. The mill was one of the most successful businesses in early Edmond. The name Rodkey Flour Mill is still visible on the old grain tower by the railroad at 2nd street. Eloise was very involved in civic activities, writing, music and art. Eloise and Kenneth had three children: Kenneth, Carol, and Robert. Her daughter, Carol Eloise Rees, wore the same dress in the 1970s for her wedding, and then her niece, Julie Eloise Edgerton Place, wore it in the 1980s.

Eloise’s dress, along with others, is on display at the Edmond History Museum as part of the “Unveiled: Edmond’s Bridal Fashion 1875 – 2020.” The exhibit runs through August 12, 2023.