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| Rachel Jackson |
Who was Lewis Robards? He was Rachel Jackson first husband! I never knew that she was married twice!
When Rachel Donelson (1767-1828) got married at the age of seventeen, it was to Lewis Robards, a wealthy Kentucky planter who was ten years her senior. Rachel was considered attractive, with lively personality and striking dark eyes. Her family thought that Robards was a suitable match for her, so she willingly agreed to the marriage. However, it didn't take long for Rachel to realize that Robards was a jealous and abusive man who may have mistaken her outgoing nature for flirting. In contrast, Robards had a reputation for having a violent temper and being unfaithful. Both Rachel and Robards were unhappy in their marriage.
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| Lewis Robards |
Rachel Jackson's relationship with Lewis Robards was like a rollercoaster ride, filled with ups and downs, eventually leading to their separation due to allegations of infidelity. Her subsequent relationship and marriage to Andrew Jackson also had its fair share of challenges and controversy. Lewis Robards accused Rachel of adultery, causing them to separate in 1790. Following their separation, Rachel crossed paths with Andrew Jackson and their connection blossomed. However, Rachel mistakenly believed her divorce from Robards had been finalized, leading her to marry Jackson in 1791. It was later revealed that her divorce was not legally complete at the time of her marriage to Jackson, resulting in public scrutiny and controversy surrounding their union.
Not only was Rachel divorced, but there were rumors that she and Andrew had cohabitated before her legal separation from her husband. Throughout the country, she was labeled as a bigamist, adulteress, and whore by the media, raising doubts about her suitability for the role of First Lady.
The Natchez Wedding
The Natchez wedding, although there is no written record, was used by Robards as fresh evidence to complete the divorce case against Rachel, accusing her of bigamy. Andrew and Rachel were legally married.
The confusion surrounding all of this can be attributed to the fact that divorce was not well understood at that time. The situation became even more complex due to the distances involved and the changing governing authorities. For instance, during Rachel and Robards' divorce, Kentucky transitioned from being a territory of Virginia to becoming a state, and North Carolina transferred control of the territory, including Tennessee, to the Federal Government. Consequently, the unique circumstances of the Jackson marriage were not extensively discussed within Nashville society.
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| Rachel and Andrew Jackson |
Andrew and Rachel Jackson were devoted to one another. Whenever Jackson's political, business, or military matters necessitated his absence from home, Rachel missed him dearly. Fortunately, since her extensive family resided nearby, she typically had the companionship of friends or relatives at The Hermitage.
Despite growing up on the frontier, Rachel Jackson did receive an education. While most of her letters were lost in the fire that engulfed the Hermitage mansion in 1834, the remaining few indicate that she was an affectionate woman who deeply cared for her loved ones.
Many observers characterized Rachel as an unassuming rural woman. She herself admitted to preferring the company of her family and religious services over a constant rotation of parties and social gatherings.
The Hermitage
One of the social gatherings I one really understood was: The Hermitage, the residence of President Andrew Jackson, features a driveway shaped like a guitar that was created in 1837 to please his daughter-in-law, Emily. The tree-lined guitar-shaped driveway has remained intact for over a century, truly reflecting its vintage appeal. Today I understand that the guitar shaped driveway has been overrun by tornadoes.
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Hermitage |
Although the Jacksons adopted a few children and foster a few more, the has always some believe that Rachel believed her inability to have children was a punishment from God. Leaving her first lawful marriage, no matter how unhappy she was. And, of course, occasional criticisms about her bigamy, her character, her adulterous marriage. It managed to arise from the depths of Jackson's enemies. As Andrew Jackson launched his bid for the White House, the attacks against him and his personal life intensified. Insulting remarks and taunts were focused on the circumstances of Rachel's marriage to Andrew. The stress and depression compounded her existing health problems.
As the campaign progressed, her condition worsened. According to reports, she confided in a friend, stating, "I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of God than live in that palace in Washington."
Rachels Death!
Shortly after Jackson's victory in the presidential election, Rachel's health took a final turn for the worse. She passed away on December 22, 1828. Her death deeply affected Andrew, who always blamed his political enemies for her demise.
Her funeral, held on December 24th, was also highly esteemed. Businesses across Tennessee were shuttered, while the resounding chimes of church bells echoed for an entire hour. A staggering attendance of 10,000 individuals flocked to the Hermitage, paying their last respects to "A being so gentle and virtuous, slander might wound but never dishonor."
As a widower heading to Washington, Jackson brought various members of his extended family to live with him. It was during this time that his niece, Mary Eastin, married Lucius Polk, and even his great-niece, Mary Emily Donelson, was born in the White House.
"My mind is so disturbed… that I scarcely write. In short, my dear, my heart is nearly broken." said Jackson
I think my mind would be broken! After all they went through!
In America History
In American history, among great leaders and statesmen, there exists a woman named Rachel Jackson, who possesses remarkable strength and resilience. Although overshadowed by her husband, President Andrew Jackson, Rachel's own tale is one of bravery, love, and determination, leaving a lasting impact on the nation's early days.
Step back in time to the early 19th century, where politics and personal struggles intertwined, and where the heartbeat of a nation was molded by both triumph and tragedy. In this captivating biography, we explore the life of Rachel Jackson, who was not only the First Lady of the United States but also a woman driven by her own passions, desires, and the sacrifices she made for love.
We uncover the intimate details of Rachel's life - from her modest beginnings on the frontier of the young American nation to the fateful encounter with Andrew Jackson that forever altered her destiny. Amidst the harsh realities of frontier life and the tumultuous world of politics, Rachel's story unfolds as a testament to a love that withstood intense scrutiny and cruel rumors.
Beyond the glamorous exterior of the White House, Rachel faced personal challenges that would have shattered weaker individuals. Her strength in the face of public criticism, her unwavering commitment to her spouse, and her empathy for others showcase a woman of profound character and depth.
I hope you can forgive me I have been on hiatus for one month! I will be back on a week to week schedule!
Can you buy me a cup of coffee?
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