Ellen Arthur

Ellen Arthur (1837-80) was the wife of Chester A. Arthur, 21st president of the United States, though she never served as first lady because she died of pneumonia before her husband assumed office. In her absence, the president's sister, Mary Arthur McElroy, acted as White House hostess.

This Day in History

May 24

Presidential

Thomas Jefferson inquires about a former flame, 1797

On this day in 1797, future President Thomas Jefferson writes to his friend Angelica Church, inquiring casually about their mutual friend, Maria Cosway, a…

Did You Know?

President Chester Arthur ordered that a bouquet of fresh flowers be placed in front of a White House protrait of his wife Ellen each day.

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