The Mrs. America pageant is the longest standing beauty pageant for married women. Originally established in 1938 as the “Mrs. American Pageant”, Mrs. America was created to honor married women throughout the United States. Contestants representing all 50 states, including the District of Colombia, compete in the national Mrs. America pageant after winning their state’s title. Beginning in 1968 the Mrs. America pageant ceased for several years, until it was revived by former professional athlete and independent television producer David Z. Marmel in 1977.
The modernized Mrs. America pageant remains true to its past traditions, but not seeks to recognize was Marmel calls, “America’s greatest natural resource – the contemporary married woman.”
What’s the difference between Miss America and Mrs. America?
Can you be married and be Mrs. America?
Contestants for Mrs. America are required to be married during the time of their competition.
Can you be divorced and be Mrs. America?
Mrs. America can be previously divorced but is required to be married during their time as a contestant.
Can Mrs. America have tattoos?
There are currently no rules banning tattoos for Mrs. America contestants – but typically you might see contestants cover up their tattoos with makeup.
What is the age limit for Mrs. America?
While the average age range for Mrs. America is cited as 20 to 50 – there is only an age requirement of 18 years or older listed on their website application.
How tall do you have to be for Mrs. America?
There are no height requirements for the Mrs. America contest.
How Many Contestants Are In Mrs. America?
There are 51 contestants in the Mrs. America pageant – this includes all 50 US states as well as a delegate from Washington DC.
Do you need to be a US citizen to compete in Mrs. America?
Per their application form, you are required to be a US citizen to compete in Mrs. America but you are not required to be born in the US – only naturalized.