How Our First Ladies Entertained
In December of 2019, I set out to highlight some of the more interesting First Ladies of the USA and their roles as official White House hostess. The women who run the social aspects of our Nation’s capitol fascinate me. Seeing how traditions evolved over time through these articles lays bare some interesting stories of our Presidents’ wives and sometimes daughters.
The First Ladies who Entertained series is part of the weekly TASTE food section in The Southern Illinoisan newspaper. Each article focuses on how the First Lady managed her role. At least one relevant recipe accompanies each story.
First Ladies who Entertained
Of course, I had to start with Martha Washington. Not only because she is our first First Lady, but also because she occupies a branch on my family tree.
Enjoy reading through these articles. Please note these are on a newspaper website. Non-subscribers will have limited access.
How Martha Washington shaped entertaining at the White House, December 30, 2019
Thomas Jefferson, widowed in the White House, entertained with help of eldest daughter, February 4, 2020
Dolley Madison was a celebrated hostess with a sweet tooth, March 3, 2020
Elaborate French dishes served in Monroe White House, but the couple ate simple foods in private, March 31, 2020
Farm-style meals graced Fillmores’ White House table, May 5, 2020
Mary Todd & Abraham Lincolns’ different backgrounds inspired White House menu, June 2, 2020
Julia Dent Grant was regarded as an impeccable White House hostess, June 30, 2020
Teetotaler Lucy Hayes didn’t serve alcohol in the Hayes White House, August 4, 2020
Frances Cleveland was the youngest first lady, and was beloved by Americans, September 1, 2020
Eleanor Roosevelt showcased conscientious cooking, culinary heritage, October 6, 2020
Mamie Eisenhower was the picture of a 1950s homemaker, November 3, 2020
The photo of the royals being entertained by the Roosevelt’s says King George and Queen Elizabeth. Nope. It is Queen Mary. I think this is an interesting idea for a series of articles, but am sorry they are not more available.
Thanks for your comment. King George VI and Queen Elizabeth’s 1939 visit to Hyde Park is well documented and the photos are fascinating, especially those of their picnic. Like any newspaper, the SI limits articles for non-subscribers, but I felt it important to have all of these in a single location for those who are interested. Have a great day.
Apologies. I was thinking of the wrong George.