Betty Taylor Bliss Madame Alexander Doll

Object/Artifact

St. Joseph Museums

The image features a porcelain doll of Betty Taylor Bliss, the daughter of Zachary Taylor. The doll has curly blonde hair styled in an intricate updo. The doll is dressed in an elaborate burgundy gown adorned with layers of ruffled plaid fabric in red, black, and white. Additional details include a delicate white lace collar and black velvet trim accentuating the dress. The doll's facial features are delicately painted, with large, bright eyes and subtle blush on its cheeks.

Name/Title

Betty Taylor Bliss Madame Alexander Doll

Entry/Object ID

2022.17.24

Description

Betty Taylor Bliss, the daughter of Zachary Taylor, and but newly married, was his official White House hostess. When Taylor was elected President, his wife Margaret announced that their daughter, Betty would act in her place, since she preferred to remain at home in Baton Rouge and had no desire to be active in the social life of Washington. Miss Betty, as she became known, was full of youth and enthusiasm for her duties in the position and was most popular. The First Ladies of the United States represent a social and historical cross section of our country from its beginning until today. This collection from the Madame Alexander First Ladies of the United States represents the wives of United States presidents. Madame Alexander’s goal has always been to design dolls that are works of art and with all the charm and grace of the era they represent.

Accessories

Accessory

Stand

Condition

Overall Condition

Excellent

Relationships

Related Person or Organization

Person or Organization

Sara Bouldin

Notes

From Sara Bouldin, a second grade teacher from Marshville, Missouri. Moved to Pensacola, Florida and lived there for 35 years. Boulden was part of the Pensacola Doll Study Club before she passed away in May of 2021. The estate gifted the dolls to the club.