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Dolley Madison
First Lady of the United States
"I have had the portrait of General Washington saved from the room. It has been done."
Biography
Dolley Madison was the most celebrated First Lady of the early Republic, famous for her warmth, political savvy, and the legendary salons she hosted that helped smooth over the partisan bitterness of Washington society. But she earned her greatest fame on August 24, 1814, the day British troops marched on Washington. While her husband the President fled the city, Dolley remained at the White House filling a wagon with documents, silver, and valuables. Her last act before leaving was to ensure that the full-length Gilbert Stuart portrait of George Washington was removed from its frame and taken to safety. The British burned the White House hours later. The portrait — which she described with admirable understatement as 'done' in a letter to her sister — was the only significant artifact saved from the White House.
Did you know?
Dolley Madison was so beloved that when she returned to Washington in her widowhood, Congress gave her an honorary seat in the chamber and members stood when she entered. James Madison called her 'my darling little Payne' — she was the social engine of his presidency.
Key Battles
Burning of Washington, D.C.
Great Britain & Allies victoryAugust 24–25, 1814 · 174 total casualties
The burning of Washington was the greatest humiliation in American history — the only time since the Revolution that a foreign power had captured and burned the nation's capital. It galvanized American determination, contributed to calls for a stronger national defense, and paradoxically united a divided nation behind the war effort.
Life Journey
Timeline
May 20, 1768
🌅 Birth
Born in Guilford County, North Carolina
1783
residence
Moved with family to Philadelphia as Quakers freed their enslaved people
1809
career
Became First Lady upon Madison's inauguration
August 24, 1814
event
Saved Washington portrait before fleeing the burning White House
July 12, 1849
✝️ Death
Died in Washington, D.C.