The National Archives Comes Alive! Young Learners Program: Meet Dolley Madison

Dolley Madison, wife of President James Madison and White House First Lady, is known for saving our nation’s important papers, including the Declaration of Independence, and Gilbert Stuart's “Lansdowne Portrait” of George Washington from advancing British troops during the War of 1812. A socially engaging, witty, and diplomatic communicator, she set many trends as White House First Lady, including welcoming all political parties, hosting children’s events, and even popularizing ice cream in America. Johanna Dunphy portrays Dolley Madison.

This program is made possible in part by the National Archives Foundation.