Mary Todd Lincoln by Madame Alexander

Object/Artifact

St. Joseph Museums

The image features a Madame Alexander collectible doll designed to represent Mary Todd Lincoln. The doll is elegantly dressed in a dark purple gown with white trim and a floral accent at the waist. The outfit is accessorized with a delicate black lace shawl draped over her shoulders and a pearl necklace around her neck. Her hair is styled in an old-fashioned updo decorated with colorful flowers.

Name/Title

Mary Todd Lincoln by Madame Alexander

Entry/Object ID

2022.17.19

Description

Mary Todd Lincoln (1861-1865) was perhaps the most controversial figure among our First Ladies. Mary Todd married Lincoln when he was a struggling Illinois attorney. She discerned even then in homespun Abraham, the future President. She was ambitious, when her greatest ambition was realized, she failed to find happiness. A southerner, with members of her family in both the Confederate and Union armies, she was bound to meet hostility, especially on the part of Union Supporters. Her doll is wearing a purple velvet dress with a black lace shall and flowers in her dark brown 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.