Who would have ever thought that the well bred, privileged daughter of the family that founded Lexington, Kentucky, would end up married to the self-schooled, Illinois attorney, Abraham Lincoln?

For twenty-five years, the Lincolns were married, with Mary giving birth to four sons. In her lifetime, she saw her husband assassinated, and put three of her sons in the grave. In addition to serving as the First Lady during the most tumultuous time in our country's history, you will see how these events shaped her life.

Our speaker this month is Jane DeBeaumont, who has been portraying Mrs. Lincoln for the past three years at schools and Civil War reenactments. Her husband, Tim, portrays the Rev. Dr. Phineas D. Gurley, pastor to the Lincoln family; and her 16-year-old grandson portrays the Lincoln's eldest son, Robert.

The presentation will cover Mary Todd Lincoln's life, starting with her birth in 1818 and ending with her death in 1882. It will include her early years, family life, education, married life, her time in the White House, travel to Europe, and her final 17 years (including the insanity trial) after the assassination of President Lincoln.

Jane is a medical transcriptionist and secretary for a radiation oncologist in Apple Valley. She and her husband, Tim, an ordained minister, have been married for 26 years. They have six children (two of whom have passed on), and 15 grandchildren.

Being a distant relative of Mary Todd Lincoln, and having the same physical characteristics, Jane's presentation will lead you to feel as if you are listening to Mary herself.

Come join us as we spend our evening with Mrs. President Lincoln.

Janet Whaley
Program Chair

 

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