Abigail Adams (1744–1818)

In her last few months as First Lady, the Adams' moved into the unfinished White House, a cavernous structure so cold and damp that fires had to be kept lit constantly to make a few rooms habitable. Abigail set up a laundry in the East Room, with clothes lines spanning its vast space. Although her list of problems in the house was a long one, Abigail showed her usual good cheer and refusal to feel sorry for herself.

 "I hate to complain...No one is without difficulties, whether in high or low life, and every person knows best where their own shoe pinches."

BIOGRAPHICAL NOTE... Wife and invaluable partner of John Adams, the second President of the United States. Educated at home, Abigail Adams learned quickly and read widely.