The Life And Activities Of Dolley Madison, October 3 At Booth Library

The Newtown Historical Society will present a program on the life and activities of First Lady Dolley Madison at 7:30 pm on Monday, October 3, in the community room of C.H. Booth Library, 25 Main Street.  The presentation will be by Carolyn Ivanoff. 

Please note this month’s program is a week earlier than usual in order to avoid the Columbus Day holiday the following Monday.

Dolley Madison (the first name spelling varies, but this seems generally accepted) was the creator of the “position” of First Lady, as both her predecessors had been content to stay in the background. As Jefferson was a widower, Dolley had sometimes served as his hostess for White House affairs.

Once James Madison became President, however, Dolley believed that the constituency was hers as well as his, and that the citizens were entitled to her full efforts to serve not only the administration but the country. Her personality and taste in decorating and arranging state functions served those ends well, and her conversational skills enabled her guests to relax, and often to discuss informally those concerns that might impact the United States.

Perhaps both her fame and influence were most ensured by the British attack on the capitol during the War of 1812. In spite of the proximity of British troops and the imminence of their attempt to burn the White House, Dolley refused to leave the building until the large portrait of George Washington was removed from the walls and carried to safety. Her fame as the originator of the White House Easter egg role on the White House lawn may be a bit of a stretch, though it does lend a nice touch.

Following her husband’s administration and subsequent death in 1836, Dolley’s fortunes were not on a good path. Driven heavily into debt by her son’s profligacy, the family was saved from poverty only by Congress agreeing to purchase part of President Madison’s papers. She was also given an honorary seat in Congress from which she could watch the debates, and was given the honor of being the first private citizen to send a message by telegraph.

Part of her legend is that President Taylor’s eulogy following her death was the first to use the term “First Lady,” but in any case her influence on her successors in that office was very strong.

Carolyn Ivanoff is an assistant principal at Shelton Intermediate School. History has long been her passion, and she is committed to bringing history programs beyond the classroom into the community.

In addition to more than years as a teacher and school administrator, she develops and presents a variety of historical programs for local organizations. While not “reenacting” Dolley, Ms Ivanoff will dress in period costume.

Newtown Historical Society programs are free and open to the public. Refreshments will be served following the presentation.

For further information call 203-426-5937.