Election Day Firsts
The history of elections in the United States is constantly evolving, but here are are some notable firsts: First Packaged Candidate William Henry Harrison was the first “packaged” candidate. He …
American Presidents & Their Families
They grew up to be president but what were their childhoods like?
Political Conventions: A Look Way Back
The national conventions of both political parties in 2020 will be historic. Because of the pandemic, speeches will be given primarily via Zoom with very few people in official attendance. …
Abraham Lincoln’s Dog, Fido
In the 1850s, the Lincoln family acquired a yellow mixed-breed dog they named Fido. Fido often accompanied Lincoln to his Springfield law office or around town on errands. Fido also …
President Taft’s Cow
When President Taft took office, Mrs. Taft insisted they buy a cow to be kept at the White House. She knew that Washington, D.C. did not have dairies nearby. Her husband was well-known for his appetite, and their youngest child, Charles who was 11, would be living with them. Mrs. Taft wanted to be sure the family’s milk and butter needs were taken care of.
Raising Free-Range Children: The Abernathys
Teddy Roosevelt had his own sons and daughters whom he loved deeply, but two children, Louis (called Bud) and Temple Abernathy, became his friends while he was in the White …
Who Provides the White House Turkey?
Turkey is the traditional main course eaten by Americans on Thanksgiving Day, and the occupants of the White House have long celebrated this tradition. But unlike mere mortals who buy …
