Library Company of Philadelphia
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Welcome to the Library Company of Philadelphia's Tumblr page! Founded by Ben Franklin in 1731, we are an independent research library specializing in American history and culture from the 17th through the 19th centuries. This page highlights materials from LCP's extensive collection of rare books, manuscripts, broadsides, ephemera, prints, photographs, and works of art.
Portrait of Dolley Madison (engraving based on painting by Gilbert Stuart).
In 1801, during the presidency of Thomas Jefferson, the receptions of Dolley Madison became important events for Washington insiders. After James Madison became president in 1809, Mrs. Madison opened the White House on Wednesday afternoons to guests, who often discussed political matters informally. Arguably, it was Mrs. Madison who defined the role of First Lady as a political helpmate for the president.
- Connie King, Curator of Women’s History