Nell Arthur facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Nell Arthur
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Ellen Lewis Herndon Arthur, c. 1857–1870
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Ellen Lewis Herndon
August 30, 1837 Culpeper Court House, Virginia, U.S.
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| Died | January 12, 1880 (aged 42) New York City, New York, U.S.
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| Resting place | Albany Rural Cemetery Menands, New York, U.S. |
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Ellen Lewis Arthur (born Herndon; August 30, 1837 – January 12, 1880), known as Nell Arthur, was an important woman in American history. She was the wife of Chester A. Arthur, who later became the 21st president of the United States. Nell sadly passed away in January 1880. Her husband was elected vice-president later that year. He became president in September 1881 after President James A. Garfield was assassinated.
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Early Life and Family
Ellen Lewis Herndon, often called "Nell," was born in Culpeper, Virginia on August 30, 1837. Her parents were William Lewis Herndon and Frances Elizabeth Hansbrough.
Nell's father was a brave naval officer. In 1857, he became famous for his actions during a terrible hurricane. His ship, the SS Central America, was sinking. He helped 152 women and children safely get onto another ship. Sadly, he went down with his own ship, along with over 400 other people. This was a huge loss of life for a commercial ship at that time. Nell was 20 years old when her father died.
Growing Up and Talents
Nell grew up and went to school in Washington, D.C.. In 1856, her family moved to New York City. When she was 16, she traveled around Europe with her cousin and his daughters. Nell was a very talented singer. She had a deep voice called a contralto. Because of her singing, she was invited to join the choir at St. John's Episcopal Church in Washington, D.C.
Marriage and Family Life
Nell met her future husband, Chester A. Arthur, in 1856 in New York City. Her cousin, Dabney Herndon Maury, who was a friend of Chester, introduced them. After a short time, Chester asked Nell to marry him.
Wedding and Home Life
Nell, who was 22, married Chester, who was 30, on October 25, 1859. Their wedding took place at Calvary Episcopal Church in New York City. This day was also her father's birthday. Chester was from a small town, but he learned good manners and how to dress well. He learned a lot about high society from Nell's well-known family. The couple was known for hosting fun parties at their home in Manhattan.
Challenges and Loyalties
After moving to New York City, Nell continued to sing. She was part of the Mendelssohn Glee Club and performed at charity events. The Arthurs seemed to have a strong marriage. However, it faced challenges. Chester's political work took up a lot of his time. Also, they had different feelings about the American Civil War. While Chester served in the New York military, Nell privately supported the Southern states. Many of her relatives from Virginia fought for the South.
Their Children
Nell and Chester had two sons and one daughter:
- William Lewis Arthur (1860–1863): He sadly passed away at age two and a half. This was a very difficult time for his parents.
- Chester Alan Arthur II (1864–1937): He went to Princeton University and later studied law. He enjoyed traveling and had a fine collection of horses. His father, President Arthur, advised him not to go into politics. Chester Alan Arthur II eventually settled in Colorado Springs. He had two children from his first marriage: a daughter named Myra, who did not survive, and a son, Chester Alan "Gavin" Arthur III.
- Ellen Hansbrough Herndon Arthur (1871–1915): She was a child when her father became president. She was kept away from the public eye. She later married Charles Pinkerton and lived in New York City.
Social Connections and Influence
Nell had many friends among the important families in New York City. These friends included the Vanderbilts, Astors, and Roosevelts. Her wide circle of friends helped Chester meet more people in politics. The couple was known for wanting to gain recognition as Chester became more involved in politics.
A Comfortable Lifestyle
Nell's mother had wealth, which allowed the Arthurs to enjoy a luxurious life. They lived in a beautiful three-story home with expensive furniture. This comfortable lifestyle meant Chester didn't have to worry as much about earning money. He could focus on his work with the Republican party in New York. This helped him get important jobs, like a general in the New York military during the Civil War. After the war, he became the Collector of the Port of New York. Nell also gained fame for her singing performances.
Nell's Early Passing
On January 10, 1880, Nell Arthur caught a cold. It quickly turned into pneumonia, a serious lung infection. She passed away two days later, on January 12, 1880, in New York City. She was only 42 years old. Nell was buried in the Arthur family plot in Albany, New York.
President Arthur's Grief
Chester Arthur was very sad about his wife's death. When he became president, he could see St. John's Episcopal Church from his office. He asked for a special stained glass window to be made for his wife at the church. He had it placed where he could see it at night when the church lights were on. He also made sure fresh flowers were placed every day in front of her portrait in the White House.
Since Nell was no longer alive, President Arthur's sister, Mary Arthur McElroy, helped him. She served as the hostess for his social events and was the unofficial First Lady of the United States. She also helped care for Nell and Chester's children, who were 16 and 9 years old at the time.
See also
In Spanish: Ellen Arthur para niños
