American Presidents & Their Families

President Taft’s Weight: Keeping the Pounds Off

President William Howard Taft (1857-1930), who served as president from 1909-1913, was a big man. At about 6 feet tall, his weight fluctuated from 255... continue »

The Presidential Turkey Pardon

The first presidential turkey pardon may have occurred in 1863 when President Abraham Lincoln’s son, Tad, begged his father to write a presidential pardon for... continue »

Mary Lincoln’s Shopping Habits in Perspective

Mary Lincoln’s shopping habits and most other aspects of her life made news once Abraham Lincoln (1809-1865) won the presidential election of 1860. Though Lincoln... continue »

A Newfoundland in the White House with President Buchanan

The Newfoundland that had the run of the White House from 1857-1861 was the beloved pet of our 15th president, James Buchanan (1791-1868). The 170-pound... continue »

Eleanor Roosevelt: Foster Parent for World War II Refugees

Throughout her life, Eleanor Roosevelt (1884-1962) was a humanitarian, always finding ways to play an active role in helping others. She was particularly affected by... continue »

In Honor of Presidents Day

Today we celebrate both Abraham Lincoln's birthday (February 12) and George Washington's birthday (February 22) on the same weekend, so in honor of both presidents... continue »

Thanksgiving and the Presidential Pardon

This week I intended to look back at previous Thanksgiving celebrations in the White House, but I became distracted by other things that I decided... continue »

Little-Known Story about the Gettysburg Address

For Americans, the mere mention of "Four score and seven years ago..." brings to mind President Lincoln giving the address he delivered at Gettysburg 149... continue »

The Truman Dogs

"If you want a friend in Washington," Harry Truman once said, "get a dog." He also said: “Children and dogs are as necessary to the... continue »

Abraham Lincoln’s Dog, Fido

While living in Springfield, Illinois, the Lincoln family had several animals including a dog named Fido (ca. 1855-1865). Fido was a yellow, mixed-breed dog who... continue »

The Pets of President John F. Kennedy’s Family

John F. Kennedy (1917-1963) was the youngest candidate ever to be elected president, and he served from 1961-1963. (This year we will mark the 50th... continue »

George Washington (1732-1799): Childhood and Early Years

President from 1789-1797 Today we know that the “I cannot tell a lie” statement George Washington was supposed to have made to his father after... continue »

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