Presidental Families: James and Dolly Madison

In the days before formal political parties, the social networks of Washington were the same networks through which politics and diplomacy were conducted. Dolly defined a sphere of influence for women as hostesses of social events and stood at the juncture of public and private life (that of society) where women wielded enormous power through the ceremonial forms of dinners, receptions, and entertainments. As first lady (a term not in use until Hayes presidency), she presided over this sphere and set precedents for her successors. The dove parties she held were enjoyable ways to educate the wives of government officials about the political issues of the day so that they could take a knowledgeable part in the social and political lift of the city.

Presidental Families: James and Dolly Madison

The British still angry about losing their colonies and threatened by American plans for expansion, attacked the United States and began the War of 1812. In 1814, British troops advanced into Washington. While the president was in Maryland directing the troops, Dolly received word the the British were advancing toward the President's House. She bravely saved state papers, silver, the famous Gilbert Stuart portrait of George Washington and other valuables, and fled to Virginia in a wagon just before the British burned the White House. Many in Washington talked if moving the capital back to Philadelphia, but Dolly immediately issues a public statement that the Madisons and the government would carry on as usual undeterred by the British destruction.