Frances Folsom Cleveland facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Frances Clara Folsom Cleveland
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Frances Folsom Cleveland
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| First Lady of the United States | |
| In office June 16, 1886 – March 4, 1889 |
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| Preceded by | Rose Cleveland |
| Succeeded by | Caroline Harrison |
| In office March 4, 1893 – March 4, 1897 |
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| Preceded by | Mary McKee |
| Succeeded by | Ida McKinley |
| Personal details | |
| Born | July 21, 1864 Buffalo, New York, United States |
| Died | October 29, 1947 (aged 83) Princeton, New Jersey, United States |
| Spouse | Grover Cleveland |
| Parents | Emma C. Harmon and Oscar Folsom |
| Occupation | First Lady of the United States |
Frances Clara Folsom Cleveland Preston (born July 21, 1864 – died October 29, 1947) was a very special First Lady of the United States. She was married to Grover Cleveland, who was President twice. This means she was the First Lady from 1886 to 1889 and again from 1893 to 1897. She was the 27th First Lady in U.S. history.
Contents
Her Early Life
Frances Clara Folsom was born in Buffalo, New York. Her parents were Emma C. Harmon and Oscar Folsom. Her father, Oscar, was a lawyer. He was a business partner and friend of Grover Cleveland.
Cleveland was a close family friend. After Frances's father passed away, Cleveland helped look after her family. He made sure Frances got a good education. She went to Wells College. During this time, Cleveland and Frances often wrote letters to each other.
Marriage to President Cleveland
In 1885, Frances and her mother visited Cleveland at the White House. Even though Cleveland was about 27 years older than Frances, they became very close. On June 2, 1886, they got married.
Their wedding was special because it was the first and only time a U.S. President married in the White House. When Frances became Mrs. Cleveland, she also took on the important role of First Lady.
Life as First Lady
As First Lady, Frances Cleveland quickly became very popular. She hosted two receptions every week. People loved her friendly personality and charm. She was known for being graceful and welcoming.
In 1888, President Cleveland lost the election. Frances and Grover moved to New York City. Their first child, a daughter named Ruth, was born there.
Return to the White House
In 1893, Grover Cleveland was elected President again. This meant Frances returned to her role as First Lady. She continued to be very active and loved by the public.
During their second time in the White House, Frances gave birth to two more children. Her second child, Esther, was born in 1893. Her third child, Marion, was born in 1895. By the time President Cleveland finished his second term, Frances was one of the most popular First Ladies ever.
Later Years and Legacy
After President Cleveland retired, the family moved to Princeton, New Jersey. They had two sons there. Frances was by her husband's side when he passed away in 1908.
In 1913, Frances married again. Her second husband was Thomas J. Preston, Jr., who was an archaeology professor. Frances Folsom Cleveland Preston lived a long life, passing away at the age of 83. She was a well-known and respected member of the Princeton University community.
Images for kids
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Mrs. Cleveland in "the studio" at Marion, 1887
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Frances Cleveland by Anders Zorn, 1899
See also
In Spanish: Frances Cleveland para niños
