President's Plate: Dolley Madison as Hostess for two Presidents

Explore the Washington traditions established during Dolley Madison’s extraordinary 16-year term as national hostess for the presidencies of Thomas Jefferson and James Madison. What was it like to attend one of her famous salons? Learn the manners necessary to interact with political and society leaders of the early 19th century, discover how to properly set a table and sample a treat that Dolley served frequently. Learn how Washington’s social scene evolved over her tenure as hostess and first lady and discover the impact of her style and political instincts.