Hello. My name is Dolley Madison.

I was born Dolley Payne

on May 20, 1768 in North Carolina. My father John Payne was a planter
and farmer. I was the fourth out of eight siblings. I attended a Quaker
school where I learned to read and write.

I married John Todd in 1790 and I had two sons. The Yellow
Fever Epidemic broke out in 1793 and my husband and son died from
the disease. So, I became a widow at age 25. I served as a co- host for
President Jefferson’s receptions as he was a widower. Later I married
James Madison on September 15, 1794 and became First Lady on March
4th 1809. While my husband was quiet and reserved, I was outgoing
and friendly. I used my social skills to help the President socialize,
therefore I threw parties allowing him to meet with the people Because
I cared for the people.
I was also heavily involved with charity work. was the First Lady
to decorate what became known The White House and I also started the
first Inaugural Ball in 1809 that also became a tradition. The War of
1812 came on. When the British invaded The White House and burnt it
down, I stayed there until I could save the historic painting of George
Washington and the state documents. People consider me today a
symbol of American bravery and Independence as well as a role model
for all the future First Ladies.

I died at age 81 on July 12, 1849 of old age. My advice to you

would be to always do your best, keep on going and never give up,
despite the challenges that you can encounter in your life.