Mamie Eisenhower

Mamie Eisenhower color photo portrait, White House, May 1954

Mamie Geneva Doud Eisenhower (November 14, 1896 – November 1, 1979) was the wife of Dwight D. Eisenhower, the 34th President of the United States, and served as the First Lady of the United States from 1953 to 1961. Known for her outgoing and friendly personality, she was a popular First Lady and played a significant role in the social life of the White House.

Early Life

Mamie Geneva Doud was born in Boone, Iowa, to John Sheldon Doud, a meatpacking executive, and Elivera Mathilda Carlson Doud. She grew up in a wealthy family and spent her childhood in Colorado Springs, Colorado, and San Antonio, Texas. Mamie was educated at private schools and was known for her social charm from a young age.

Marriage and Family

Mamie met Dwight D. Eisenhower in 1915 while he was stationed in Texas as a second lieutenant. The couple married on July 1, 1916, at the Doud family home in Denver, Colorado. They had two sons: Doud Dwight Eisenhower, who died of scarlet fever at the age of three, and John Eisenhower, who became a noted military historian and diplomat.

Life as a Military Wife

As the wife of a career military officer, Mamie Eisenhower moved frequently, living in various military bases in the United States and abroad. She was known for her ability to manage household affairs efficiently despite the frequent relocations. Her support was crucial to Dwight Eisenhower's military career, especially during World War II when he served as the Supreme Commander of the Allied Expeditionary Forces in Europe.

First Lady of the United States

Mamie Eisenhower became the First Lady when her husband was inaugurated as President on January 20, 1953. She was known for her hospitality and for hosting numerous social events at the White House. Mamie was also recognized for her distinctive fashion sense, often wearing her signature "Mamie pink" color. She was a popular figure and was admired for her down-to-earth personality.

During her tenure as First Lady, Mamie Eisenhower focused on promoting American culture and traditions. She was also involved in various charitable activities and supported military families.

Later Life and Death

After leaving the White House in 1961, Mamie and Dwight Eisenhower retired to their farm in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. Following her husband's death in 1969, Mamie continued to live at the farm until her own death on November 1, 1979. She was buried beside her husband at the Eisenhower Presidential Library, Museum and Boyhood Home in Abilene, Kansas.

Legacy

Mamie Eisenhower is remembered as a devoted wife and mother, a gracious First Lady, and a symbol of 1950s American culture. Her contributions to the social life of the White House and her support for military families have left a lasting impact.

See Also

• First Lady of the United States
• Dwight D. Eisenhower
• Eisenhower Presidential Library, Museum and Boyhood Home
• White House