The Bachelor of The United States!

 Harriet Lane

Harriet Lane

Harriet Rebecca Lane Johnston

Served as the "Hostess," or First Lady, for her uncle James Buchanan, who was the 15th President of the United States from 1857 to 1861.

Harriet Lane was a remarkable First Lady, as she acted as hostess for her favorite uncle, James Buchanan, who never married. Orphaned at the age of eleven, she found comfort and guidance under her uncle's care and became the hostess for the only bachelor President in history. Despite the challenging times, Harriet Lane, a young woman in her twenties, achieved great success and charm.

Born into a prosperous merchant family in Franklin County, Pennsylvania, Harriet Lane received an excellent education at a private school and later spent two years at the Visitation Convent in Georgetown. Her uncle, who was the Secretary of State at the time, introduced her to high society circles, ensuring she was embraced "in the best manner." In 1854, she accompanied him to London, where he served as minister to the Court of St. James. Queen Victoria even granted Harriet the rank of ambassador's wife, and suitors admired her for her beauty.

With her medium height and flowing golden hair, Harriet Lane's presence brightened any social gathering. Her charisma blended spontaneity with grace, captivating all those around her.

President James Buchanan

n 1857, as the Pierce administration came to an end, Harriet Lane stepped into the role of the "Democratic Queen" of the White House. With her infectious spirit and passion, she infused gaiety and filled the residence with flowers, winning the hearts of the nation.

As tensions escalated between the North and the South, Harriet Lane meticulously arranged seating at her formal dinner parties. She tactfully ensured that dignitaries were given the proper precedence while keeping political adversaries separate. Although the task became increasingly challenging as seven states seceded during her uncle's presidency, her grace and diplomacy remained steadfast. With Buchanan's retirement and her return to Wheatland, their country home near Lancaster, Pennsylvania, she bid farewell to the White House and its demanding role.

Throughout her life, Harriet Lane enjoyed the attention of many admirers, whom she teasingly referred to as "pleasant but dreadfully troublesome." Her uncle often cautioned her against hastily entering into marriage, and she heeded his advice, waiting until the age of almost 36 to wed. With James Buchanan's approval, she married Henry Elliott Johnston, a banker from Baltimore. However, tragedy struck Harriet Lane repeatedly as she faced the loss of her uncle, her two beloved sons, and finally her husband.

Determined to create a meaningful legacy, Harriet Lane made Washington her home and surrounded herself with friends she had made during her happier years. As an avid art collector, she amassed a significant collection, primarily consisting of European works, which she bequeathed to the government. This generous gift, accepted after her death in 1903, inspired an official from the Smithsonian Institution to dub her the "First Lady of the National Collection of Fine Arts." Furthermore, she dedicated a substantial sum of money to establish a home for invalid children at Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore. This institution flourished into a renowned pediatric facility, serving as a fitting tribute to the dignified and charming young lady who once graced the White House. Today, the Harriet Lane Outpatient Clinics continue to provide vital care for thousands of children.

Gold Coins!

Harriet Lane, the First Lady of James Buchanan, captivated all who encountered her. She was revered as the "Honorary Armbassadress" by Queen Victoria and hailed as "Our Democratic Queen" by the press corps in Washington. The Chippewa people respected her as the "Great Mother of the Indians." So esteemed was she that naval and coast guard ships were named in her honor. Her influence extended beyond mere admiration, inspiring songs and even shaping fashion trends. Yet, it was not just her captivating presence and style that set her apart. Harriet Lane was a trailblazer, championing social causes such as hospital and prison reform and advocating for the rights of American Indians. No other person could have bested the Prince of Wales in a game of bowling, a skill she had imparted to him. Throughout her life, Harriet faced heart-wrenching tragedy, but she embraced each day with unwavering grace and pursued her twin passions: preserving cherished memories and improving the lives of all Americans, especially children. Her legacy lives on as one of the most remarkable women in American history.

Unfortunately, despite her immense impact and enduring popularity, Harriet Lane was overlooked in the First Spouse Gold Coin Program. Milton Stern, the author of "Harriet Lane, America's First Lady," firmly asserts that this exclusion cannot be justified. Harriet Lane, the Most Admired First Lady, deserves her rightful place in the annals of history.

Harriet Lane´s Ingaurual Dress!

For one of the few women who served as First Lady without marrying a President, Lane left a lasting impression on the position. Being the orphaned niece of James Buchanan, she was considered the Jackie Kennedy of her time. Dubbed the "Democratic Queen," the enthusiastic 27-year-old Lane took on the role of official hostess with joy, for her beloved lifelong bachelor uncle, whom she affectionately referred to as "Nunc."

Right from the beginning, Lane made waves in terms of fashion. Her inaugural gown caused quite a stir, as it was a scandalously low-cut European-style dress adorned with a beautiful garland of flowers that gracefully cascaded down her chest and diagonally across her hips. The gown became an instant sensation, causing other bodices to plunge an inch or two overnight. In fact, four years later, Mary Todd Lincoln replicated the dress for her own inauguration. Throughout her time in the White House, Lane was frequently seen carrying bouquets of roses, and her preference for exclusive spas never failed to draw attention to her youthful beauty. Such was Lane's influence that there were even flowers, perfumes, poems, babies, songs, and clothing named after her.

While Julia Tyler made concerted efforts to elevate the status of the President and First Lady, Lane's natural charm took the concept of first ladies as pop culture icons even further. With her charisma and youthful spirit, she stood in stark contrast to her predecessor, the grieving Jane Pierce. Lane was the first First Lady to be regularly referred to as the "First Lady," and she was also the first to consistently invite non-political celebrities to White House functions. Moreover, she was a trailblazer in adopting social causes, particularly focusing on improving living conditions on Native American reservations.

Not only was Lane a beloved figure, but she was also philanthropic in her later years. She established a home for invalid children, which has now become part of Johns Hopkins Hospital. She generously donated her art collection to contribute to the formation of the Smithsonian American Art Museum. Additionally, she funded the construction of a building on the St. Albans school campus in Washington, D.C.

Harriet Lane - Video

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History of Jane Pierce, the 14th President´s Wife!

Jane Pierce

 Early Life

Jane Appleton was born in the town of Hampton, New Hampshire on March 12, 1806. She came from a family of six children - herself being the third eldest daughter, born to Jesse Appleton (a Congregationalist minister) and his wife Elizabeth.

When her father was appointed as president of Bowdoin College in 1807, the family relocated to Brunswick, Maine, which at the time was part of Massachusetts. Sadly, her father's religious fasting practices had a negative impact on his health and he passed away in 1819. 

Growing up in the Appleton household, Jane developed a strong Puritan, evangelical, and Calvinist religious devotion. Following her father's passing, the family moved in with her grandmother in Amherst, New Hampshire. 

President Franklin Pierce

Marriage & Family

Apple and Franklin Pierce got to know each other after he relocated to Amherst for his law studies at Bowdoin. Their first meeting might have happened during a thunderstorm or through an introduction by Jane's brother-in-law, Alpheus Packard, who was also Franklin's professor. Some say she met him at her mother's house. However, her family was against their relationship due to their class difference, Franklin's manners, drinking habits, support of slavery, religious beliefs, and political ambitions. Despite these issues, they had a seven-year courtship, which continued even when Franklin moved to Hillsborough, New Hampshire to practice law and partake in the New Hampshire General Court. They tied the knot in a private ceremony on November 19, 1834, at the time when Franklin was a member of the House of Representatives. They were seen as quite different, with Jane's introverted and depressive nature contrasting with Franklin's outgoing and ambitious personality.

After their wedding, the couple traveled to Washington, D.C., but Jane didn't like the city. She even met President Andrew Jackson at the White House New Year's Day reception in 1835 but decided to leave the city that same year and returned to her mother's house in Amherst, while Franklin stayed back in Washington. The couple later bought a house in Hillsborough, where Jane preferred to live when Franklin was away. They relocated to Concord, New Hampshire in 1838 when Franklin became a senator. Jane urged him to resign and retire from politics in 1842. Jane disliked politics, which caused a strain in their relationship as Franklin's political career progressed. Despite their political differences, they had a warm relationship and kept in touch through letters when they were apart.

Franklin and Jane had three sons, all of whom tragically passed away during childhood. Franklin Jr., born in 1836, died just three days after his birth. Frank Robert, born in 1839, died from epidemic typhus at the age of four in 1843. Lastly, Benjamin, born in 1841, lost his life in a train accident at the age of 11 in 1853.

After Franklin's tenure in the Senate ended, the family led a more domestic life, with Franklin supporting them through his law practice. He did, however, briefly serve as a brigadier general in the Mexican–American War. This period is often seen as the happiest in Jane's life as Franklin was away from politics and she still had two of her sons with her.

They sold their house during the war and lived in various places thereafter. Franklin was offered the position of United States Attorney General by President James K. Polk, but he declined due to Jane's disapproval. After the death of their second son, Jane focused on raising Benjamin, their only surviving child, in a strict religious environment while Franklin continued his law practice.

First Ladies of the United States

Jane Pierce was not fond of political life and was uncomfortable in the role of first lady. Despite her strong religious beliefs and an aversion to politics, she found herself drawn to the abolitionist cause and tried to influence her husband's stance on the issue. She believed the tragedies in her life were divine punishments for her and her husband's sins.

In 1852, her husband was nominated for president by the Democratic Party, a piece of news that reportedly caused her to faint. He had misled her about his presidential ambitions and tried to convince her that their son, Benjamin, would have a better chance of success if he were president. Despite this, she prayed for his loss in the presidential election. Her prayers were not answered, and he won the presidency by a significant margin.

Tragedy struck again during this period when their train derailed, and Benjamin was killed right before their eyes. Jane slipped into a deeper depression, convinced that the loss of their sons was divine punishment for her husband's political ambitions. She didn't attend his inauguration and stayed in Baltimore for two weeks.

Jane kept a low profile during the first few months of her husband's term. She dressed in mourning black and had the White House decorated to reflect the same. She left her duties as the first lady to her aunt and close friend Abby Kent-Means, preferring private Bible study and solitude. She developed a friendship with Varina Davis, wife of Secretary of War Jefferson Davis, and took an interest in their infant son, who sadly passed away in 1854. Gradually, she adapted to her role as the First Lady.

During her time in the White House, she held religious services and insisted the staff attend church. She occasionally influenced her husband's decisions, like when she persuaded him to reverse the arrest of abolitionist Charles L. Robinson in 1856. She took an interest in abolitionism and started attending Congressional debates after her mourning period. At the end of her husband's term, she again chose not to attend the presidential inauguration of his successor, James Buchanan.

         

Later Life and Death!

After Franklin's presidential term ended, the Pierces spent a month in Washington before touring New England. They then traveled overseas for two years, returning only to buy a 60-acre property in Concord before heading to the West Indies. Jane often avoided Concord as it brought back painful memories of their late son, so she spent most of her remaining life with relatives in Massachusetts.

During the American Civil War, Jane supported the Union and backed abolitionism, which contrasted with Franklin's stance of preserving slavery to maintain the nation and its Constitution. Her health deteriorated in the years following their time in the White House due to worsening tuberculosis. She passed away on December 2, 1863, at the age of 57 and was laid to rest at Old North Cemetery in Concord. Franklin was buried next to his wife and son after his death on October 8, 1869, at the age of 64.

In her will, Jane made donations to the American Bible Society, the American Society for Foreign Missions, and the American Colonization Society.

 

 Jane Pierce Legacy

The public's initial impression of Jane Pierce was shaped by a biography of her husband, written by their friend, Nathaniel Hawthorne. He highlighted her frail health as the reason for Franklin declining a role in the Polk administration, which painted her as a chronically ill woman - an image that has endured.

As first lady, Jane was perceived as an invalid and a gloomy presence in the White House, although she did draw sympathy for her grief. She was known as "the shadow of the White House." However, she faced public criticism when she cancelled Saturday evening Marine Band concerts because of the Sabbath. Hawthorne once described her as a person who "wasn't really of this world."

Historians generally rate Jane poorly, with polls indicating she is regarded as one of the least effective first ladies. She served in the role before it had national prominence and during a presidency that has faded into obscurity. Like other antebellum first ladies, she is often described as avoiding the limelight and having minimal impact on her husband's administration. She is considered to have set little precedent for her successors.

Jane's influence on her husband was seen in her disapproval of politics, including her role in his decision to retire from the Senate in 1842. Some scholars suggest she may have felt a religious duty to save his soul and courted him because of his vices rather than despite them. While contemporary views of Jane were generally sympathetic, 20th-century historians often described her as a hypochondriac who failed to support her husband during times of tragedy, considering her a detrimental factor in her husband's poorly recieived presidency.

Politcal Beliefs

Pierce was a Puritan, shaping her views on life. She believed suffering was God's punishment and disliked Washington's party culture and drinking habits. Raised a Whig, her marriage to a Democrat caused family disputes. She backed the temperance movement, opposing alcohol, and supported abolitionism, clashing with her husband's view on slavery. She hoped for a Union win in the Civil War. Pierce admired President Andrew Jackson but thought Representative Davy Crockett was arrogant and foolish.

The Gold Coin!

Jane Pierce, the spouse of President Franklin Pierce from 1853 to 1857, was the First Lady of the United States. She was honored with a gold coin, symbolizing her significance and contributions during her time as First Spouse.

Jane Pierce Inaugural Dress

Dresses of the 1850´s

The shirts feature short straight collars and are paired with narrow neckties tied in wide bows. The half-boots have short heels. The coat sleeves are long, exposing only a small amount of shirt cuff. A fashion plate from 1857 showcases formal evening wear, informal day wear, top coats, and a dressing gown.

The gown's elegance is heightened by the use of a plain stripe fabric in the pleats of the skirt. These vertical stripes not only enhance the gown's visual appeal but also create the illusion of elongation.

During the mid-19th century, the typical female silhouette consisted of a fitted, corseted bodice and wide, voluminous skirts. The skirts evolved from the Empire silhouette of the 1830s, with the waistline lowering and the shape becoming more bell-shaped. In the late 1860s, the skirts gained fullness at the back with the development of the bustle. The size of the flared skirts gradually increased throughout the period and relied on various methods of support. Originally, multiple layers of petticoats provided support, but they were later replaced by underskirts made of graduated hoops crafted from materials such as baleen, cane, and metal. The fashion trends of the time allowed the textiles to take center stage due to the large surface area of the skirt and minimal excess trim.

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Abigail Fillmore was the President Fillmore Bride!

Abigail Fillmore

 Abigail Fillmore, the wife of President Millard Fillmore, served as the first lady of the United States from 1850 to 1853. At the age of 16, she began her teaching career and even taught her future husband as a student. While her husband pursued his political career, she continued to work as a teacher and lived in Buffalo, New York. She occasionally joined him in Albany, New York, and Washington, D.C., where she became involved in local social activities. After her husband was elected vice president, she became the second lady of the United States in 1849 and then the first lady in 1850 when her husband assumed the presidency.

First Books of White House 1850! 

One of Fillmore's notable accomplishments as first lady was the establishment of the first White House Library. Being an avid reader herself, she believed that a home without books was incomplete. The library not only became a popular reception room but also served as a literary salon. Additionally, she actively participated in political discussions with her husband and often provided him with her valuable insights on state affairs. While she faced challenges due to her health issues, such as a mobility-limiting ankle injury, she delegated many of her social responsibilities to her daughter Mary Abigail Fillmore. Tragically, Fillmore passed away from pneumonia in 1853, just weeks after her tenure as first lady had ended. Unfortunately, she is considered one of the lesser-known first ladies in history, and much of her correspondence has been lost.

Abigail Powers was born on March 13, 1798, in Stillwater, New York, in Saratoga County. She was the youngest of seven children and her father, Reverend Lemuel Powers, was the leader of the First Baptist Church until his untimely death when she was only two years old. Following her father's passing, the family moved to Sempronius, New York, where they lived with her older brother Cyrus Powers due to their financial difficulties. Despite their challenging circumstances, Abigail had access to her father's extensive library and developed a love for literature at an early age. Her mother, a schoolteacher, used the books to teach her how to read and instilled within her an appreciation for education. Abigail excelled in various subjects such as mathematics, government, history, philosophy, and geography. Additionally, her family's strong opposition to slavery and their friendship with local abolitionist George Washington Jonson introduced her to the principles of abolitionism during her upbringing.

At the age of 16, Powers began her career as a schoolteacher, making her the first first lady who had previously pursued a professional occupation. She started as a part-time teacher at the Sempronius Village school in 1814 and eventually became a full-time teacher in 1817. In 1819, she took on an additional teaching position at the private New Hope Academy, all while continuing her own studies. She expanded her knowledge by studying various subjects and even learned to speak French and play the piano after leaving school.

Washington, D.C., and Albany, New York

President Millard Fillmore

When Millard was elected to the United States House of Representatives in 1832, Abigail stayed in Buffalo while he served in Washington, D.C. He stepped down in 1834 but was reelected in 1836. This time, Abigail joined him in Washington, leaving their children with relatives in New York. During their time there, Abigail took on the responsibilities of a politician's wife, while also exploring the city's cultural and academic institutions. They followed this routine whenever Congress was in session for the next few years, with Abigail regularly writing to their children and encouraging them to improve themselves.

Abigail gained a positive reputation in Washington social circles. In 1840, she was offered the opportunity to dedicate a building, a rare honor for a woman at that time, which she declined. During her time in Washington, she attended a Senate debate by Henry Clay in 1837 and had the chance to meet Charles Dickens in 1842. After Millard left Congress in 1842, they returned to Buffalo, where Abigail became a well-liked hostess. When Millard later became the New York State Comptroller, they moved to Albany, New York, where Abigail became involved in the city's social scene. Although she looked down upon fashionable society, she enjoyed observing people's behavior and attending parties. During their time in Albany, they once again sent their children away to Massachusetts. The Fillmores were blessed with two children: their son Millard Powers Fillmore arrived in 1828, while their daughter Mary Abigail "Abbie" Fillmore joined the family in 1832.

A severe ankle injury!

In 1842, Abigail sustained a severe ankle injury while walking on an uneven sidewalk. This unfortunate incident left her unable to walk for two weeks and caused ongoing pain and mobility issues. Despite her injury, Abigail persevered and continued to fulfill her duties as the second lady of the United States when her husband was elected as the Whig candidate for vice president in the 1848 presidential election. However, due to her health, she chose to remain in Buffalo instead of returning to Washington. During this time, she focused on caring for her sister, who had suffered a stroke. She made a brief visit to Washington in 1850 to see her husband but found the social life uninteresting. As the second lady, she had the opportunity to interact with renowned authors of the time, including Ann S. Stephens, Lydia Sigourney, and Emma Willard.

White House Presidency

President Zachary Taylor passed away in July 1850, leading to Millard Fillmore becoming the president and Abigail becoming the first lady. Abigail, who was on vacation in New Jersey with her children at the time of President Taylor's death, was unsure of herself upon discovering that she would be the first lady. She had grown accustomed to domestic life and was apprehensive about the sudden expectations placed on her. She arrived at the White House in October and experienced significant grief due to her sister's death in February 1851.

As the first lady, Abigail Fillmore actively hosted numerous social events at the White House. Although she engaged in conversations with guests, she did not particularly enjoy the social aspects of her role. She often found that most guests had little interest in her intellectual pursuits, which she humorously referred to as "cave dwellers." Abigail frequently went on coach rides with her husband around Washington and the surrounding countryside. Additionally, she took advantage of the cultural opportunities in Washington, regularly attending art exhibitions and concerts, even breaking precedent by traveling without her husband. During summers, she would return to New York to visit friends and family.

Unlike many first ladies, Abigail Fillmore did not extensively redecorate the White House upon entering. Coming from a humble background, she designed the interior in the style of a middle-class home. However, she emphasized the use of mahogany and fine carpets. Abigail also oversaw the expansion of the White House heating system and had a kitchen stove installed to replace cooking by the fireplace.

Abigail and Millard Fillmore maintained regular correspondence when they were apart. Their letters often revolved around political matters, and Abigail provided her husband with advice and counsel on these topics. She closely followed congressional bills and other political news, enabling her to discuss them in detail. Millard highly regarded her opinion and reportedly consulted her before making any important decisions. Abigail may have advised against signing the Fugitive Slave Act of 1850, although he ultimately did. She may have also encouraged him to end the practice of flogging as a punishment in the Navy. People would frequently write to Abigail, asking her to speak to the president on their behalf. These letters often came from charities seeking donations or individuals seeking political patronage. Her brother David received a position in the Fillmore administration through her intervention.

Due to her poor health, Abigail Fillmore delegated many of her duties to her daughter Abbie, who met with visitors outside of the White House. Her ankle injury further complicated her role as a hostess, often leaving her bedridden for a day after standing for hours to manage long receiving lines. By the end of Millard Fillmore's presidency, Abbie took on most of the social aspects of the role. Additionally, an ankle injury in 1851 caused Abigail to be incapacitated for weeks, relieving her from further responsibilities. The reserved nature of social life at the White House following President Taylor's death and increasing political polarization also played a role in reducing the demands on Abigail Fillmore.

White House Library

When Abigail first moved into the White House, she was reportedly shocked to discover that it lacked a library. Previous presidents had brought their own private book collections with them and kept them after their terms ended. Recognizing the need for a library, the Fillmores decided to establish one in the White House. Abigail, who was accustomed to having books in her home, took charge of organizing and decorating the room. She modeled it after the style of Andrew Jackson Downing, using cottage furniture with walnut frames. Abigail personally opened and placed each new package of books that arrived.

During the Fillmore administration, the library became a social hub of the White House. Abigail hosted renowned writers and performance artists, essentially creating a literary salon. The library served as a reception room, a family room, and a place of rest for her husband. Additionally, it doubled as a music room, where Abbie played instruments such as the piano, harp, and guitar. Abigail spent a significant amount of time in her library as first lady, while Millard often visited at night after leaving his executive duties.

Death

Abigail Fillmore was the first first lady to attend the inauguration of her successor. After leaving the White House, she and her husband planned to embark on a journey. However, their plans were halted when she fell ill. Initially a cold, her condition developed into bronchitis and then pneumonia. Unfortunately, the doctor's treatment, which involved cupping and blistering, proved ineffective and may have worsened her health. Abigail passed away at the Willard Hotel on March 30, 1853, at the age of 55. She was mourned in Washington and her final resting place is Forest Lawn Cemetery in Buffalo, New York.

Abigail's death led to a period of mourning in Washington, with many federal government operations temporarily ceasing out of respect. Millard acknowledged her support in advancing his education in his memoirs. Five years after her passing, at the age of 58, Millard married Caroline Carmichael McIntosh, a wealthy widow from Buffalo. They remained married for sixteen years until Millard's death from a stroke at the age of 74.

Legacy

In the years before the American Civil War, first ladies received limited public attention. Abigail Fillmore, compared to other first ladies, has received relatively less historical coverage and is often seen as less active. However, she is best remembered for establishing a library in the White House. Due to the lack of surviving documents, little attention has been given to Abigail in biographies of Millard Fillmore. It is believed that most of her private correspondences were destroyed by her son. The surviving records primarily consist of lists of books she requested her husband to purchase while traveling. Historians differ in their opinions regarding the extent to which her poor health and ankle injury hindered her duties as first lady. While some believe it significantly limited her abilities, others argue it served as an excuse to avoid responsibilities. Abigail is generally recognized as an intellectual and a supportive influence in her husband's life. Unfortunately most of her correspondence was lost.

Inauguration Dress!

In the 1850s, inauguration dresses were typically characterized by the fashion trends of the time, which were quite different from contemporary styles. Here's a rundown of what you can anticipate observing in inauguration dresses from that era.

1.) Silhouette: Women's dresses during the 1850s were usually marked by a slim, cinched waist and a full, bell-shaped skirt. This style accentuated an hourglass figure and showcased wide hoop skirts that resulted in a voluminous appearance.

2) Fabrics: Inauguration dresses commonly utilized opulent, substantial fabrics such as silk, satin, and velvet. These materials were frequently employed for formal occasions and added an air of luxury to the attire.

3) Necklines and Sleeves: Necklines were typically modest, featuring high necks or subtle off-the-shoulder designs. Sleeves varied from short, puffed sleeves to long, fitted sleeves. Lace and ruffles were frequently incorporated as decorative elements.

4) Colors: Dark, rich colors like deep reds, blues, purples, and black were favored for formal dresses during this period. Brighter colors and pastels were also used but were less commonly seen at formal events.

5) Accessories: As part of their formal attire, women typically adorned themselves with gloves, shawls, and bonnets. Jewelry, including brooches and cameos, was often worn to complement the ensemble.

6) Hairstyles: Hairstyles were generally conservative, with women wearing their hair in updos or pulled back. Bonnets or headpieces were commonly worn to complement the outfit..

It's worth noting that fashion varied by region and social class, so the specific style of an inauguration dress in the 1850s might have differed based on factors such as location, the wearer's social status, and personal preferences. Nevertheless, these general characteristics provide insight into what could be expected in inauguration dresses from that era.

Dresses from 1850's

Did Mrs. Fillmore Have a $10 coin?

Yes, she did! One of her most enduring contributions as the first lady was her efforts in establishing a permanent library at the White House. President Fillmore sought Congress' approval for funds, and with $2,000 granted for the project, Mrs. Fillmore procured a substantial collection of books to initiate the library in an oval parlor on the second floor. This space became a hub for her to entertain esteemed guests, including renowned authors such as Washington Irving, Charles Dickens, and William Makepeace Thackeray.

While I see this blog is coming to the end! It happens when Halloween is in style! October 31, 2023. There are many skeleton, and tramps and witches turning about! Doing my research I learned that Halloween didn´t come to the White House until 1958. The White House was adorned by the first Halloween decorations. First Lady Mamie Eisenhower in celebration of Halloween for the first time. A luncheon was hosted in the State Dining Room where the wives of staff members gathered. The room was transformed with spooky decor such as skeletons hanging from the wall lights, yellow jack-o'-lanterns, and bunches of dried corn in the corners. The State Dining Room columns were artistically embellished at their bases with brown corn stalks, pumpkins, and red apples. The tables were elegantly adorned with miniature witches on broomsticks and sixteen silver bowls filled with yellow and bronze chrysanthemums. Autumn leaves, nuts, ears of dried corn, dried gourds, and dried squash were thoughtfully scattered across the tables. Additionally, black cats, black owls, disembodied witch heads, and goblins dangled playfully from the chandeliers in the foyer.

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Uncover the Extraordinary First Ladies of the United States!

Hey there, fellow history enthusiast! Are you ready to plunge into the captivating realm of the First Ladies of the United States?

Even though they may sometimes be overshadowed by their presidential partners, these exceptional women have played a crucial role in shaping the nation's history.

From the fierce activism of Eleanor Roosevelt! .

Eleanor Roosevelt

To the poise and elegance of Jacqueline Kennedy1

Jackie Kennedy

Discover their untold tales, triumphs, and challenges, and gain a deeper comprehension of the significant contributions these remarkable women have made.

Explore fascinating anecdotes, delve into their passions and projects, and delve into the impact they had on society and politics during their tenure in the White House.

Come along on this captivating journey through history, and let the lives of the First Ladies motivate and empower you to leave your own mark on the world.

Thank you for visiting my website today to explore our collection of articles, interviews, and resources dedicated to honoring the legacy of the First Ladies.

None other hosted by me! Marie Ehlenbach! 

 

history-by-marie.blogspot.com

Don't miss out on this chance to immerse yourself in the lives of these extraordinary women who have shaped the course of American history.

Next time we will be hearing about Abigail Powers Fillmore! She is the wife of President Millard Fillmore! She is recognized as an intellectual and a supportive influence in the President's life.

 

Abigail Fillmore

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Portraits, Real Stories, Real People. Margaret (Peggy) Taylor, the Wife of President Zachary Taylor

 

Margaret "Peggy" Taylor

Margaret Mackall Smith

 Also known as "Peggy", served as the First Lady of the United States from 1849 to 1850 during her husband Zachary Taylor's presidency. Due to her poor health, she delegated many of the official hostess responsibilities to her daughter Betty Taylor.

After the election of 1848, a passenger on a Mississippi riverboat struck up a conversation with the easygoing General Zachary Taylor, unaware of his identity. The passenger expressed doubt about the general's qualifications for the presidency, asking if he was a "Taylor man". To this, the general replied, "Not much of one," and explained that he himself had not voted for Taylor because his wife opposed the idea of accompanying "Old Zack" to Washington. This response was a candid admission.

President Zachary Taylor

 

President Zachary Taylor

Furthermore, it is said that Margaret Taylor made a vow during the Mexican War. She promised that if her husband returned safely, she would withdraw from society completely. In keeping with her vow, she never engaged in social activities despite her refined upbringing.

Peggy Smith was born in Calvert County, Maryland, to Ann Mackall and Walter Smith, a major in the Revolutionary War according to family tradition. In 1809, while visiting her sister in Kentucky, she met a young Lieutenant Taylor. They got married the following June, and for a while, Peggy stayed on the farm given to them as a wedding gift by Zachary's father. She gave birth to her first child there, and then willingly followed her husband to various remote garrisons along the western frontier.

In 1820, the Taylors tragically lost two young daughters to a severe bilious fever, which took a toll on Margaret's health. Nevertheless, three daughters and a son survived and grew up. Despite being aware of the challenges faced by military wives, Zachary Taylor disliked the idea of his daughters marrying career soldiers. However, in the end, all of them married individuals involved in the Army.

The second daughter, Knox, defied her parents' wishes and married Lieutenant Jefferson Davis. In a heartfelt letter to her family, she imagined her mother engaging in everyday tasks like skimming milk in the cellar or feeding the chickens. Unfortunately, just three months after her wedding, Knox died from malaria. It was not until they fought together in Mexico that Taylor reconciled with Davis. In Washington, the second Mrs. Davis became a close friend of Mrs. Taylor and frequently visited her at the White House.

Mary Elizabeth Taylor

Mary Elizabeth Taylor

While Peggy Taylor enjoyed welcoming friends and family in her upstairs sitting room, presiding over meals at the family table, and attending special gatherings by her husband's side, she refrained from participating in formal social events. She entrusted all the responsibilities of an official hostess to her youngest daughter, Mary Elizabeth, who was 25 years old and had recently married Lieutenant Colonel William W.S. Bliss, the President's adjutant and secretary. Betty Bliss fulfilled her role exceptionally well, effortlessly blending the charm of a rural beauty with the elegance of a duchess.

Though Taylor had been invited to stay at the White House, President Zachary Taylor had died July 9, 1850.  As long as necessary, she chose to leave on the evening of her husband's state funeral. A week later, Taylor departed Washington and spent three months with her daughter Ann in Baltimore before settling in Pascagoula, Mississippi with her daughter Betty. She lived a private life thereafter and never mentioned her time in the White House. It is believed that she spent her remaining years teaching Sunday school. Taylor passed away from a fever on August 14, 1852, and was laid to rest beside her husband at what is now the Zachary Taylor National Cemetery. At the time of her death, she held the record for the shortest post-White House life of any first lady, lasting two years and 36 days. However, this record was soon surpassed by her successor Abigail Fillmore, who passed away mere weeks after leaving the White House.

For many years, there was uncertainty surrounding the authenticity of any portraits or photographs of Taylor. No known images were available. Instead, in portrait galleries featuring the first ladies, Taylor's portrait was typically replaced with that of her daughter Elizabeth. However, in 2010, a tinted ambrotype portrait of Taylor emerged. This particular image has since become the basis for most depictions of her. Before this discovery, the only known image of Taylor was an engraving released by the U.S. Government in 1902. In November 2010, Heritage Auctions presented a ninth plate daguerreotype of the First Lady, an heirloom from the Taylor family. At the time, it was identified as one of only two known photographs. This specific daguerreotype was loaned by Taylor's daughter, White House Hostess Betty Taylor Bliss Dandridge, for use as a model for the engraving.

Margaret Taylor gold coins! 10 dollars!

Margaret Taylor

 How fashion intersects politics, economics, gender, race & pop culture., A thread for thought!

The Smithsonian started informally but system systematically collecting (only inaugural ball gowns reaching back to 1912) The early days of United States history. While the garments were originally donated informally, it has become a media event publicizing the First Ladies and the museum heightening the import of choosing the right gown with the right message in the first place!

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