First Lady: Martha Dandridge Custis Washington
Washington got engaged to Martha Dandridge Custis in 1758. At the same time, it appears that he was in love with Sally Fairfax, his neighbor's wife, although there is no evidence that the affection was returned. However, he did marry Martha on January 6, 1759. She had two children from a previous marriage along with a great deal of money and land.
IN THEIR OWN WORDS…
Martha Washington had to deal with much hardship following her husband through his military command and presidency, but she always maintained high spirits. In her words: “I am still determined to be cheerful and happy, in whatever situation I may be; for I have also learned from experience that the greater part of our happiness or misery depends upon our dispositions, and not upon our circumstances.”
While Martha did not receive a formal education, she knew how to efficiently run a household. She was a warm hostess much admired by all. She also loved her family and her privacy; unfortunately this need for privacy led her to burn the letters she had exchanged with her husband before her own death in 1802.
