Sarah Childress Polk
Eleventh Presiding Lady, wife of James K. Polk, known for her dignity, accomplishments, and strict Presbyterian beliefs.
Core Belief
"Believed in the importance of religious faith, moral conduct, and the pursuit of knowledge."
Worldview
Saw the world through the lens of her Presbyterian faith, believing in the need for temperance, piety, and social reform.
Personality
Courteous, dignified, and accomplished, Sarah was a devout Presbyterian who took her duties seriously.
In Their Own Words
"Dancing is not permitted in this house."
"We must uphold the principles of our faith in all our actions."
"Let us strive to be examples of virtue and righteousness."
Other Characters from Presiding Ladies of the White House: containing biographical appreciations together with a short history of the Executive mansion and a treatise on its etiquette and customs
Martha Washington
First Presiding Lady, wife of George Washington, known for her refined taste and hospitality.
Abigail Adams
Second Presiding Lady, wife of John Adams, known for her strong mind and intellectual abilities.
Dorothy Paine Madison
Fourth Presiding Lady, wife of James Madison, famous for her charm, tact, and popularity.
Elizabeth Kortright Monroe
Fifth Presiding Lady, wife of James Monroe, known for her elegance, dignity, and accomplishments.
Harriet Lane
Fifteenth Presiding Lady, niece of James Buchanan, renowned for her charm, good taste, and diplomacy.
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