Mary Todd Lincoln: A First-Person Portrayal

First-person historical presenter Valerie Gugala kicks off Women's History Month at the Library with this portrayal of one of America's most famous First Ladies. 

During her life, the press vilified her. Since her death, her image as a “hellcat” and an unmanageable wife has become part of the American consciousness. But is this the true story of Mary Todd Lincoln? In this portrayal, Mary sets the historical record straight as she takes us through her life as a young woman born into a wealthy Kentucky family and the transformation she made to marry a young man whose background was just the opposite. Mrs. Lincoln narrates their life in Springfield, Abe’s political career and election to the presidency, and their life in the White House during the Civil War.

Brought to you in partnership with River Forest Township.