Helen Taft by Madame Alexander

Object/Artifact

St. Joseph Museums

The image features a porcelain doll in the likeness of Helen Herron Taft. The doll has blonde hair styled in an updo. She wears a luxurious, full-length, white gown adorned with intricate silver floral patterns. The dress is further embellished with lace and frills around the neckline and sleeves. A small choker necklace complements her attire.

Name/Title

Helen Taft by Madame Alexander

Entry/Object ID

2022.17.15

Description

Helen Herron Taft (1909-1913) had a great political experience and important contacts to bring with her to the White House. Her husband, William, had previously been Secretary of War as well as distinguished diplomat which elevated her to become the First Lady of the Phillipine Islands. Brilliant affairs were given during their stay in Washington after President Taft's term expired he became Chief Justice of the Supreme Court and, once again, this popular woman assumed a position of prominence and importance. Her Doll is wearing a white dress with silver flower patter and silver accents. She is also wearing a white pearl necklace and a bow in her hair. 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

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.