Secrets & Scandals Of America’s First Ladies

The First to Party

One thing is certain about Dolley Madison; she knew how to throw a party! From the moment she stepped foot in the White House in 1809, she decided to shake up the stiff, humorless receptions. At Dolley’s parties, people mingled, joked, laughed, and treated themselves to desserts. Her soirees became fun gatherings that people looked forward to. Her events even acted as a time for peacemaking. Dolley once got two congressmen to end their feud over a nasty political disagreement. When President Madison died in 1836, she resumed her role as First Entertainer. She was also granted an honorary seat in Congress – by unanimous vote – and all the upcoming presidents met Dolley to seek her approval.