Ava Rose Robertson, a senior at Episcopal School of Baton Rouge, is making history beyond her reign as Queen of the Young Men Illinois Club.
The Louisiana native is donating her custom-made gown—a symbol of Black excellence and tradition—to a museum, ensuring its legacy will be preserved for generations to come.
A Dress with a Story to Tell
Robertson wore the gown on January 31, 2025, during the Young Men Illinois Club’s annual debutante cotillion at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in New Orleans.
The prestigious organization, founded in 1895 by Black butlers working on the Illinois Central Railroad, has long been dedicated to uplifting young Black women by presenting them to society with grandeur and grace.
“Being able to put it on a pedestal because it was a custom-made dress and it was all for this one night. I don’t want it to be sitting in a closet somewhere. I want it to be appreciated,” Robertson shared.
Her participation in the tradition was more than an honor—it was a legacy.
“My name’s been on the list to be queen since I was born. Some may call it a birthright,” she added.
The Young Men Illinois Club, in an Instagram post celebrating the event, highlighted Robertson’s crowning moment, stating:
“The Young Men Illinois Club, Inc. proudly presented seventeen phenomenal and pulchritudinous young ladies to society on Friday, January 31, 2025. Eight lovely princesses and three dutiful pages were also part of the court during the organization’s annual debutante cotillion… Her Royal Highness Ava Rose Robertson, daughter of Dr. Corey Anthony Robertson and Atty. Natalie Tellis Robertson, was crowned queen.”
Preserving Black History
Robertson’s decision to donate the gown adds a unique component to Black history, further cementing the cultural significance of the Young Men Illinois Club’s legacy.
“I’m so thrilled to be able to have Ava’s dress because it lends this unique component of Black history,” a museum representative expressed.
With her donation, Robertson ensures that the Young Men Illinois Club’s long-standing commitment to honoring Black women continues to inspire future generations.
