Name/Title
Doll of Dolley Payne Todd MadisonDescription
Dolley Payne Todd Madison
The wife of the 4th President of the United States
Dolley was born in 1768 in Piedmont, North Carolina to John and Mary Coles Payne. In 1769 they moved back to Mr. Paynes' home colony of Virginia. Moving again in 1783 to Philadelphia, the city of the Quakers.
Growing up in strict discipline Dolley (her given name at birth) let no restrictions mute her happy personality and warm heart. To this day Dolley remains one of the best known and best loved ladies of the White House.
Dolleys first marriage to lawyer John Todd Jr., ended after only three years, when he fell to yellow-fever and died leaving Dolley with a small son, Payne
Philadelphia had become the Capitol city of the country. Dolley, with her charm and beauty, soon drew distinguished attention, entered Representative James Madison of Virginia, 17 years older and Episcopalian in background. They were married in September 1794. The marriage was childless but reportedly happy with Dolley saying "our hearts understand each other," Mr. Madison being a patient man even with her son who mishandled his own affairs and eventually mismanaged President Madison's estate.
Dolley discarding the Quaker dress chose the finest of fashion. Reported by Margaret Bayard Smith chronicler of early Washington social life, wrote: "She looked a Queen, it would be absolutely impossible for anyone to behave with more perfect propriety than she did."
Dolley made her home the center of society when Madison began in 1801, his eight years as Jefferson's Secretary of State. Assisting when ask by the president to help in receiving the ladies, and presided at the first inaugural ball in Washington when her husband became Chief Executive in 1809.
Dolley's social graces made her famous, and her gracious tact smoothed many a quarrel. She welcomed all. When the British army attacked the White House in the War of 1812, she was forced to flee. Upon returning the find the mansion in ruins she entertained as beautifully as ever in the temporary quarters.
The Madisons retired to their home in Montpelier in Virginia and lived a pleasant life until President Madison died in 1836. Dolley then returned to Washington where she lived out her life thanks to many friends that found tactful ways to help supplement her diminished income.
Dolley died in 1849 and remains cherished to this day in out history because of her delightful personality.Acquisition
Accession
2008.0007Source or Donor
Amacher, Dorothy
