James Madison
Dolly Madison Recounts Fleeing the Burning White House

Following up on their victory at the Battle of Bladensburg on August 24, 1814 British troops bore down on the nation’s capital at Washington only a few miles distant. Their objective was to destroy the city’s governmental buildings and raise as much havoc as possible. Witnessing his army’s defeat, President … Continue reading

James Madison
[Text] Margaret Smith Recalls Jefferson’s Demeanor at Madison’s Inauguration

Library of Congress

Margaret Bayard Smith’s Account of Thomas Jefferson at James Madison’s Inauguration and Ball - 4 Mar. 1809 On the morning of Mr Madison’s inauguration, he asked Mr Jefferson to ride in his carriage with him to the Capitol, but this he declined, & in answer to one who inquired of him why … Continue reading