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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The 11! The Ladies of the United States!

 Sarah Childress Polk

Sarah Childress Polk,

The wife of the 11th President of the United States, James Polk, served as First Lady from 1845 to 1849.

Growing up on a plantation near Murfreesboro, Tennessee, Sarah took the luxuries of silks and satins for granted. Her father's wealth allowed her and her sister to receive an education, a rarity for women in the early 19th century. She attended schools in Nashville and Salem, North Carolina, acquiring knowledge that would prove invaluable in assisting her husband's political career.

Sarah's path crossed with James K. Polk!

Sarah Childress crossed paths with James K. Polk when they both happened to be receiving instruction from Samuel P. Black at his residence in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. It's worth noting that Polk was 19 at the time, while Sarah was only 12. Their formal introduction took place during the early 1820s when Polk's involvement with the State Legislature brought them together. According to legend, it was around this time that Andrew Jackson described Sarah as "wealthy, pretty, ambitious, and intelligent," urging Polk to make her his wife. The year 1823 marked their engagement, and on January 1, 1824, at the plantation home of Sarah's parents near Murfreesboro, the 20-year-old Sarah Childress tied the knot with her 28-year-old beau, James Polk.

 As he was laying the groundwork for his political journey, they tied the knot on New Year's Day in 1824, with the encouragement of Andrew Jackson. Being a political protégé of Jackson, Polk represented a district in Congress for 14 sessions.

They remained happily married for 25 years, but their love story was bittersweet as they never had children. This was often attributed to the bladder stone surgery Polk underwent in his youth, which is believed to have rendered him unable to conceive. In a unique twist, they were the only presidential couple who never experienced the joy of raising children together—whether biologically, through adoption, or from previous marriages. However, their nurturing spirits shone through as they took in their nephew, Marshall Tate Polk (1831–1884), and cared for him as their own for a few years before James enrolled him in a prestigious school in Washington, D.C., and later Georgetown University. After her beloved husband's passing, Sarah extended her love and care to her great-niece, Sarah Polk Fall (1847–1924), fostering a bond that would withstand the test of time.

President & First Ladies of the U.S. Polk

In a time when motherhood defined a woman's primary role!

Sarah accepted her fate of not having children. However, she found her place in politics through her astute mind and social skills. Whenever possible, she joined her husband in Washington, providing behind-the-scenes support by helping with speeches, copying correspondence, and offering advice. Sarah's dedication even extended to warning him against overworking. When he handed her a newspaper, she eagerly absorbed its contents.

A devoted Presbyterian, Sarah abstained from attending horse races or the theater. However, she excelled at maintaining valuable social connections for James. When he assumed the presidency in 1845, she seamlessly stepped into her role as First Lady. Though she attended the inaugural ball, she refrained from dancing.

In contrast to Julia Tyler's lively waltzes!

 Sarah's gatherings became known for their dignified and decorous atmosphere. While some later accounts claim that the Polks never served wine, a diary entry from December 1845 reveals a lavish four-hour dinner at the White House, complete with a variety of wines. Skilled in diplomatic conversation, Mrs. Polk not only enjoyed widespread popularity but also commanded deep respect.

Following their retirement to their elegant new home called "Polk Place" in Nashville, James passed away merely three months later due to the toll of years of public service. Clad in perpetual black, Sarah continued to reside at Polk Place for another 42 years, preserving her husband's memory and accepting honors bestowed upon her as representative of him. The house became a site of pilgrimage.

Years of Political Life

During her husband's political career, Mrs. Polk played a crucial role in assisting him with his speeches, utilizing her insightful guidance to shape his outlines and provide much-needed assurance. She made it a point to accompany him on his trips to Washington, actively participating in the political realm. Not only did she meticulously transcribe his correspondence, but she also developed exceptional social skills. Mrs. Polk was not one to openly express her sentiments, instead opting to maintain a humble demeanor. However, her husband himself recognized her as his most dedicated supporter and constructive critic. She provided him with valuable advice on policy matters and actively contributed to his campaigns.

Mrs. Polk established correspondence with national leaders, obtaining insights into global issues that were relevant to her husband's campaign. She was among the first president's wives to actively involve herself in her husband's electoral process and campaign. Not only did she excel in maintaining these lines of communication, but she also expressed her support for James Polk's administration and his proposed policy initiatives through her writings in a local newspaper. In one of her more controversial pieces, she discussed the concept of expansionism and its relation to the United States' belief in manifest destiny as a sovereign power.

During the tumultuous period of the Civil War! 

Mrs. Polk remained neutral and hosted dignitaries from both Confederate and Union armies with grace and poise. Polk Place was recognized as neutral ground, earning her admiration and respect. Sarah lived in her cherished home until her death at the age of 88, buried beside her husband. The nation mourned the loss of this precious link to the past.

If you would like, here is a short bio of Mrs Polk!

Mrs. Polk Dresses

Sarah Polk embraced the fashion trends of the mid-1840s, donning tightly fitted corsets beneath her dresses and gowns. Her outfits featured closely tailored sleeves and bodices, accentuating her figure above the full, bell-shaped skirts that were fluffed up with crinolines. Inside the White House, she typically wore flat shoes made of kid or satin, while for outdoor excursions, she adorned her head with bonnets and hats. Fancy lace caps, as well as handsomely decorated headdresses and turbans made of silk, satin, or velvet, were her preferred choices for indoor appearances. In line with her republican values, she eschewed precious gemstones for jewelry, opting instead for coral, cameo, and paste. A visitor to the White House once commented that the Polk women were bedecked with "giant stone breastpins."

Sarah Polk's 1845 Inaugural Ball Dress

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A Secret Engagement! Number 3!

 

Julia Tyler

The enchantress of the nation's capital, Julia Gardiner Tyler, captured the heart of the tenth President, John Tyler. After their clandestine engagement and wedding, she gracefully assumed the role of First Lady from 1844 to 1845.

"I lament that my love should be considered a belle," sighed one of Julia Gardiner's countless admirers in 1840. At the young age of 20, she was already renowned as the "Rose of Long Island."

Being the daughter of Juliana McLachlan and David Gardiner, who were descendants of affluent and influential families in New York, Julia had been groomed since early childhood for a life in high society. She made her debut at 15 and later embarked on a European tour with her family, which exposed her to dazzling social splendors. In late 1842, the Gardiners ventured to Washington for the winter social season, where Julia quickly became the undisputed darling of the capital. Her breathtaking beauty and practiced charm captivated the most eminent men in the city, including President Tyler, who had been a widower since September.

Tragedy struck!

 During the following winter, when Julia, her sister Margaret, and her father joined a Presidential excursion on the newly built steam frigate Princeton. A devastating explosion of a massive naval gun resulted in the loss of David Gardiner's life. It was during this time of grief that Tyler provided solace to Julia and managed to win her consent to a secret engagement.

President John Tyler

Becoming the first President!

 He married while in office, Tyler exchanged vows with Julia in New York on June 26, 1844. The announcement of their marriage sparked great interest, extensive media coverage, and some criticism due to their significant age difference of 30 years.

As the young Mrs. Tyler herself remarked, she splendidly reigned as First Lady during the final eight months of her husband's term. Adhering to mourning customs, she would wear white satin or black lace garments and exude vivacity and animation while hosting a series of lively parties. She thoroughly enjoyed her prestigious position and filled it with grace. During receptions, she reintroduced the formality of the Van Buren administration, welcoming guests adorned with plumes in her hair and accompanied by maids of honor dressed in white. It was once said, with undeniable truth, that "Nothing appears to delight the President more than…to hear people sing my praises."

The Tylers'

 Happiness remained unshaken as they retired to their home at Sherwood Forest in Virginia. It was there that Julia gave birth to five of their seven children and dutifully managed the plantation until the outbreak of the Civil War. As mistress of the estate, she staunchly defended both states' rights and the institution of slavery. Julia became a steadfast advocate for her husband's political views, with Tyler forever remaining "the President" in her eyes until his passing.

The loss of her beloved husband in 1862 dealt Julia a severe blow. In a heartfelt poem composed for his sixty-second birthday, she had reassured him that "whatever changes time may bring, I'll love thee as thou art!"

Julia Tyler

Despite being a refugee in New York, she continued to dedicate herself to volunteer work for the Confederacy. However, the defeat of the Confederacy left her in dire financial circumstances. It wasn't until 1958 that federal law finally granted automatic pensions to Presidential widows. Nonetheless, Congress demonstrated some leniency in 1870 by awarding a pension to Mary Lincoln, which Julia Tyler used as a precedent when seeking assistance. In December 1880, Congress voted to provide her with $1,200 per year. Furthermore, following President Garfield's assassination, bills were passed to grant uniform amounts of $5,000 annually to Mrs. Garfield, Mrs. Lincoln, Mrs. Polk, and Mrs. Tyler. Julia spent her last years living comfortably in Richmond before passing away there in 1889. She was laid to rest beside her beloved husband.

Beyond my Door! 

                    

This is a short copy of Julia Tyler life! 👍

How do woman dress in the 1800´s ?

Necklines in the 1880s soared high and sleeves were impeccably fitted and snug. Women's fashion during this time period was a true spectacle, with dresses adorned in an array of ornate and lavish details. Ruffles, pleats, and gracefully draping fabrics were fundamental elements in the ensembles of the fashionable ladies. To complement these exquisite dresses, women opted for stylish boots, bonnets, and hats, often embellished with delicate lace and charming ribbons.

Ladies of the Unites States dresses!

Dress of Julia Tyler

The young and vibrant Julia Gardiner Tyler caused a sensation in Washington when she married widower President John Tyler on June 26, 1844. Despite her brief tenure of only eight months as First Lady, she left a lasting impression. Previously, James Sanderson’s anthem “Hail to the Chief” had been played on various occasions to honor American Presidents, but it was Julia Tyler who became the first presidential spouse to request its playing specifically to announce the President’s arrival at official events. This tradition has endured to the present day.

Julia Tyler worked tirelessly to support her husband’s political agenda, particularly in advocating for the annexation of Texas. Utilizing her remarkable charm, she successfully persuaded Members of Congress, a Supreme Court justice, and cabinet members to lend their support to the cause. Following Congress' favorable vote and the President's signing of the resolution, he presented Julia with the golden pen he used, as a tribute to her efforts. With great pride, she affixed the pen to her necklace and subsequently wore it at formal gatherings.

Mrs Julia Tyler´s $10 Coin Pieces!

If you would like to know more about Letitia Tyler just click below!

https://history-by-marie.blogspot.com/2023/08/letitia-tyler-she-took-place-of-anna.html

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