On Exhibit In Stark County

The work of Frances Benjamin Johnston at McKinley Presidential Library and Museum!

Mar 04, 2026

Learning about The Woman Behind The Lens: Frances Benjamin Johnston.

A new series showcasing exhibits of art, showcases of music, and much more, currently on exhibit in Stark County! "On Exhibit In Stark County" takes you into local museums and other amazing places in America's Playing Field and gives you a behind-the-scenes look at these groundbreaking exhibitions!

On Exhibit Now: The illuminating exhibition "The Woman Behind The Lens: Frances Benjamin Johnston and the American Presidency", on view until May 31st, 2026 at the McKinley Presidential Library and Museum!

You can checkout the video content for On Exhibit In Stark County by following our blog pages, as well as our Instagram and Facebook feeds!

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Frances Benjamin Johnston

Visit Canton got a behind-the-scenes look at the latest exhibit at the McKinley Presidential Library & Museum with executive director Kim Kenney! “The Woman Behind The Lens: Frances Benjamin Johnston and the American Presidency" examines the life and work of Frances Benjamin Johnston (1864-1952).

This groundbreaking photojournalist served as the photographer for several presidential administrations at the turn of the century, including Harrison, Cleveland, McKinley, Roosevelt, and Taft.


“The Woman Behind The Lens” allows visitors to view her work, ranging from presidential portraits to her work documenting architecture, as well as examines her life as quiet possibly one on of the first to make a living as a photojournalist.

Enjoy a sample of our new social media video series "On Exhibit in Stark County" below!

Did you know? A photograph Johnston took of McKinley’s final speech during the Pan-American Exposition in Buffalo NY, before he was shot in September 1901 became the image the statue on the steps of the McKinley National Memorial was based upon.

From a beautiful diamond brooch gifted to Johnston from President McKinley, to a chance to see cameras that span her career as a photojournalist, "The Woman Behind The Lens" is a fascinating chance to discover an unknown part of American history!


New episodes can be found on Visit Canton's Instagram and Facebook pages, as well as on our Youtube Channel!

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