One of the few things saved from the White House during the War of 1812 was this portrait of George Washington; Dolley Madison saved it and nothing else. When President Madison realized his wife had saved another man’s portrait and not his, the Madison’s marriage was on the rocks for the next ten years.
3 Comments → “George Washington’s Portrait and the Madison Marriage Rift”
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mark
1 year ago
I've always wondered what George was reaching for while his portrait was being painted.
Tim Tucker
1 year ago
I think he was just doing his "Friends, Romans, countrymen" pose.
lola
6 months ago
she didn't just save his portrait, she also saved valuables and sent them off to the bank for safe keeping