Dolly Madison is probably the most famous First Lady in United States history.

In 1886, the letters of Dolly Madison were published for the first time, bringing back to life the voice of a true American heroine for a new generation looking for someone who deserved to be admired.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Dolly Payne Todd Madison was born in 1768 and married John Todd, Jr. in 1790. They had two children, Payne in 1792 and William in 1793. John Todd, Jr. died in October 1793 during the yellow fever epidemic which also claimed William’s life. In 1794 Dolly married James Madison and immersed herself in political life. She became First Lady in 1809 when Madison became the fourth President of the United States. When the British attacked Washington, D.C. during the War of 1812 she proved her heroism by risking her life to save valuable objects from the White House including a portrait of George Washington by Gilbert Stuart. Her brave act remains unequaled to this day. She died in 1849. Payne Todd died in 1852. He had no heirs.