Crete and James: Personal Letters of Lucretia and James Garfield

by John Shaw (Editor)

Crete and James is a collection of letters exchanged by James A. Garfield and Lucretia Randolph Garfield during the mid-nineteenth century. Of the 1,200 or so letters written, the 300 included this work chronicle their courtship and marriage, and also discuss the Civil War, political affairs, and the details of daily life during the years 1853-1881. In them, we watch Crete grow from a shy girl into a self-confident woman who guides her husband in social and political matters. Through James’s flamboyant yet scholarly style, and Lucretia’s detailed, perceptive insights, we come to know them as though they were our close friends. Through their correspondence, the reader also meets the many people involved in their lives. Crete and James will be of great interest to those studying women’s history.

Genres: American History

397 pages, Hardcover

First published December 1, 1994

Reviews

[Jill Miller · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is not the typical biography but instead a collection of letters written by James Garfield and his wife Lucretia before and during their marriage. Frankly, I didn't find Garfield likeable. He was a womanizer and was frequently away from home leaving 'Crette' to manage their home and children. The Garfields were Ohio natives and lived in an adjoining county to where I live so it was very interesting to read references to local communities and famous Ohio politicians, etc.
A side note: The Garfield National Museum located in Mentor, Ohio has an excellent Facebook page with daily postings about Garfield and other historical events.

[Toby Murphy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was definitely one of the more interesting "biographies" I have read on a first lady. It isn't a traditional one as it focuses more on the relationship between Lucretia and James through their letters. It offers great insight into both the time period and their own relationship. At times it was a bit lengthier than it probably should have been, but the author did a great job of choosing letters that really capture their relationship. The author's notes throughout also help place them in the historical context.

[The History Mom]

Since Crete and James exchanged about 1200 letters during their courtship and marriage, their letters provide great insights into their personalities and relationship. It is truly heart-breaking to read about Crete’s longing for her husband and James’ worry about Crete’s health.

[Hanna Violet Schwank · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautiful insight into the relationship of James and Lucretia Garfield. It allowed me to understand their personalities and struggles on a deeply human level. It makes history come to life!

[Nicole Milazzo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fascinating in every way.