Dolly Madison: Famous First Lady

by Mary R. Davidson

A biography of the fourth president's wife, whose accomplishments included saving valuable documents when the British burned the White House during the War of 1812.

Genres: History

80 pages, Library Binding

First published January 1, 1966

Reviews

[Marilyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is a simple child's bio that you can read in 30 minutes or less. I learned so many interesting things! She was born a Quaker, but loved pretty things. She first married a Quaker and had 2 sons. Her husband and baby died of yellow fever (he stayed in Philly to look after sick people including his parents. After he buried them he rode on horseback to meet Dolly and the kids. He died as soon as he got to them). She contracted it and lived. Aaron Burr introduced Dolly to James Madison. They married after a really short courtship. He was much older than she was. They never had kids together. They both spoiled her son Payne (named after her maiden name). Payne never learned to work, was thrown in jail in Europe for his debts, and he ultimately lost the family estate (Montpelier in Virginia). Madison was Jefferson's VP. President Jefferson was a widower and asked Dolly (known for her amazing food and hospitality) to be the official hostess for the country. She became first lady for 2 terms. When the British burned Washington during the War of 1812, she saved some precious things from the president's house including silver and Stuart's painting of George Washington. The frame was nailed to the wall, her guards had fled, she ordered the frame broken. After their second term they retired to Montpelier for 20 years doing non-stop entertaining of unexpected guests. This killed their finances. James died, Dolly moved to a house in Washington leaving the estate in Payne's care. Ultimately she was saved from poverty because Congress decided to buy James' notes from the Constitutional Convention (the only notes taken) for 25K.

[Quinndara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very Good introduction to Dolly Madison's life, times, and impact on American life. Was delighted to learn about her.