Ethel Roosevelt Derby

Ethel Roosevelt cph.3c34884

Ethel Carow Roosevelt Derby (August 13, 1891 – December 10, 1977) was the youngest daughter and fourth child of Theodore Roosevelt, the 26th President of the United States, and his second wife, Edith Roosevelt. She was a prominent American socialite and philanthropist.

Early Life[edit | edit source]

Ethel Roosevelt was born on August 13, 1891, at Sagamore Hill, the Roosevelt family estate in Oyster Bay, New York. She was named after her mother's sister, Ethel Carow. Ethel grew up in a large and active family, with her siblings Alice Roosevelt Longworth, Theodore Roosevelt Jr., Kermit Roosevelt, Archibald Roosevelt, and Quentin Roosevelt.

Education[edit | edit source]

Ethel attended the National Cathedral School in Washington, D.C., and later studied at the Rittenhouse Academy in Philadelphia. She was known for her strong sense of duty and compassion, traits that she carried throughout her life.

Marriage and Family[edit | edit source]

On April 4, 1913, Ethel married Dr. Richard Derby, a prominent surgeon. The couple had four children: Richard Derby Jr., Edith Derby, Sarah Derby, and Judith Derby. The family lived in New York City and later moved to Sagamore Hill after the death of her mother, Edith Roosevelt, in 1948.

World War I Service[edit | edit source]

During World War I, Ethel served as a nurse with the American Red Cross in France. Her husband, Dr. Richard Derby, also served in the war as a surgeon. Ethel's dedication to the war effort was a reflection of her family's tradition of public service.

Philanthropy and Later Life[edit | edit source]

Ethel was actively involved in various charitable organizations throughout her life. She was a supporter of the American Red Cross, the Girl Scouts of the USA, and numerous local charities in Oyster Bay. After her husband's death in 1936, Ethel continued to live at Sagamore Hill, where she managed the estate and preserved her father's legacy.

Death[edit | edit source]

Ethel Roosevelt Derby passed away on December 10, 1977, at the age of 86. She was buried alongside her family at the Youngs Memorial Cemetery in Oyster Bay, New York.

Legacy[edit | edit source]

Ethel Roosevelt Derby is remembered for her contributions to philanthropy and her dedication to preserving the legacy of her father, Theodore Roosevelt. Her life exemplified the values of service and commitment to community.