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SUMMARY

The friendship between Harriet Lane, her Uncle (and 15h President) James Buchanan with Queen Victoria and Prince Albert and the young future king 18-year old Prince of Wales played a key role in the Queen’s proclamation of neutrality in May, 1861 at the outset of the Civil War that provided some check on a strong sentiment among the commercial classes in England to recognize the Confederacy. These friendships began between 1853-1856 when Harriet and her uncle (whom she called “Nunc” in private, when he was made the ambassador from the U.S. to the Court of St. James. Then when Lincoln announced the Emancipation Proclamation in September, 1862 the Confederacy was condemned by England, France and Russia. The Sweet Shoppe building in Shepherdstown is also known as the Lane building because Harriet’s family – at one time herself – owned it. This quite remarkable person called by Frank Leslie’s illustrated weekly as our original “First Lady” in 1860, cemented, shall we say, strong friendship not only with the Queen, but also the young Prince of Wales whom she accompanied when he came to the United States in July-October, 1860 as war clouds gathered and soon burst.

NOTE: 1 asterisk * denotes research source; 2 asterisks ** denotes text or script; 3 asterisks *** denotes music and sound effects in the corresponding video.

VIDEO: Harriet Lane America’s Original First Lady by Jim Surkamp TRT: 1:09:34
segment 1:05:49-1:09:34 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r0NBsXgs6fI&t=1874s

CORRECTION at 1:06:28​
The images of Harriet’s sons are reversed: sitting is James Buchanan Johnston, standing is Henry Elliot Johnston Jr.

BEGIN:

1:05:49 – schoolhouse ridge by vandaliariver.com over images 369-376 to 1:07:17

All through her life Harriet campaigned for causes for the good. In the eighteen years following the great American tragedy of the Civil War, Harriet – now a private citizen – loved and lost four of her dearest family inspirations.

Both sons were affected by a sudden, unknown illness that left both boys physically impaired with hearts weakened by rheumatic fever. Harriet and her husband Henry had widely sought medical advice and treatment, to no avail.
One son died at home in 1881, and the other died the following year; they were fifteen (14.5) and twelve years old.

Then Henry, who had patiently courted her in the 1850s and 1860s before they married, died in 1884 at the age of fifty-two,

1:07:17 Beauties I by Cam Millar over images 377-381 to 1:08:20

leaving her with one wellspring of inspiration and the first she ever had known from her days at the The Georgetown Visitation Academy, the school which had the greatest impact on her and the influence of St. Francis de Sales guidance: Be who you are and be that well. Nothing is so strong as gentleness, nothing so gentle as real strength. Have patience with all things, But, first of all with yourself.

Source of St. Francis de Sales quotes – wikipedia.org 27 July 2001 Web. 30 January 2020
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Francis_de_Sales

She fashioned her grief into blessings to others. Upon Harriet’s death nearly twenty years later, her estate provided a sum of over $400,000 to establish the Harriet Lane Home for Invalid Children as a memorial to the Johnstons’ two sons.

In October 1912, the Harriet Lane Home for Invalid Children officially opened. It was the first children’s clinic in the United States associated with a medical school. Eventually treating over 60,000 children a year, the Harriet Lane Home became a pioneer treatment, teaching, and research clinic. It was closed in 1972.

*
Harriet Lane Home for Invalid Children
June 2, 2018 By Nancy Sheads in Baltimore City, Hospitals
Founded: 1912
Closed: 1972
Location: 5-story building on the grounds of the Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, MD
mdhistoryonline.net https://mdhistoryonline.net/2018/06/02/h261/

1:08:20 murphy by vandaliariver.com over images 382-388 to 1:09:34

She is largely responsible for getting the ball rolling – donating her own collection – to successfully jump-start the first iteration of our beloved National Gallery of Art on the Mall, reminiscent of the other “People’s Palace” from 1850s London.

*
Journal Article
Harriet Lane Johnston and the Formation of a National Gallery of Art
Homer T. Rosenberger
Records of the Columbia Historical Society, Washington, D.C.
Vol. 69/70, The 47th separately bound book (1969/1970), pp. 399-442
Published by: Historical Society of Washington, D.C.
https://www.jstor.org/stable/40067721
Page Count: 44
https://www.jstor.org/stable/40067721?seq=1#page_scan_tab_contents

1:08:20 murphy by vandaliariver.com over images 382-388 to 1:09:34

When she died July 3rd, 1903, the wealth she controlled from her happy but short marriage was used to establish the St. Albans School.

She died recognized by a grateful many.

*
biographer Milton Stern wrote:

“She had this air about her — her posture, her voice, the way she carried herself. She was not reserved, and she was extremely intelligent. Today a woman of her stature would probably be a senator or candidate for president.” – post-gazette.com 14 January 1998 Web. 14 January 2020 https://www.post-gazette.com/life/lifestyle/2006/12/05/The-first-first-lady-Buchanan-s-niece-enlivened-social-scene/stories/200612050130

*
The art collection of former first lady Harriet Lane Johnston, President James Buchanan’s niece, resides in the Smithsonian American Art Museum. This story as originally published Dec. 5, 2006 said she had bequeathed the collection to the National Gallery of Art, which is what the museum was called at the time. The name was changed after Pittsburgher Andrew Mellon’s gift established the current National Gallery of Art in 1937.

The Original First Lady with a special spark.

Sources:

From this dazzling career abroad, she came back to her native land, to preside over the President’s House. She became the supreme lady of the gayest administration which has marked the government of the United States. Societies, ships of war, neck-ties were named after her. Men, gifted and great, from foreign lands and in her own, sought her hand in marriage. Such cumulated pleasures and honors probably were never heaped upon any other one young woman of the United States. . . . Neither he nor her country ever suffered from any conversational lapse of hers, which, in a day so rife with passion and injustice, is saying much.
Ames, Mary Clemmer. (1874). Ten Years in Washington: Life and Scenes in the National Capital, As a Women Sees Them.” Hartford, CT: A.D. Worthington & Co.
books.google.com 24 November 2005 Web. 5 January 2020
pp. 234-235
https://books.google.com/books?id=9tA9_FN5OTsC&pg=PA233&lpg=PA233&dq=Her+head+and+features+were+cast+in+noble+mold,+and+her+form+which+at+rest+had+something+of+the+massive+majesty+of+a+marble+pillar,+in+motion+was+instinct+alike+with+power+and+grace.&source=bl&ots=a2TrWrZ8Vw&sig=ACfU3U1M71Xc_S9e3zhlSGSM-1DIOAPcjw&hl=en&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwj5nbTft9vjAhWRd98KHT84Bt8Q6AEwA3oECAkQAQ#v=onepage&q=Her%20head%20and%20features%20were%20cast%20in%20noble%20mold%2C%20and%20her%20form%20which%20at%20rest%20had%20something%20of%20the%20massive%20majesty%20of%20a%20marble%20pillar%2C%20in%20motion%20was%20instinct%20alike%20with%20power%20and%20grace.&f=false

In 1858, Lane received a letter from a Native American leader of Wisconsin’s Chippewa tribe asking her help in removing an Indian Affairs agent who introduced liquor for sale Nancy Hendricks, p. 118

The Prince of Wales was entertained at the White House, who presented his portrait to Mr. Buchanan and a set of valuable engravings to Miss Lane, as “a slight mark of his grateful recollection of the hospitable reception and agreeable visit at the White House.”- Ames p. 235.
books.google.com 24 November 2005 Web. 5 January 2020
https://books.google.com/books?id=9tA9_FN5OTsC&pg=PA233&lpg=PA233&dq=Her+head+and+features+were+cast+in+noble+mold,+and+her+form+which+at+rest+had+something+of+the+massive+majesty+of+a+marble+pillar,+in+motion+was+instinct+alike+with+power+and+grace.&source=bl&ots=a2TrWrZ8Vw&sig=ACfU3U1M71Xc_S9e3zhlSGSM-1DIOAPcjw&hl=en&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwj5nbTft9vjAhWRd98KHT84Bt8Q6AEwA3oECAkQAQ#v=onepage&q=Her%20head%20and%20features%20were%20cast%20in%20noble%20mold%2C%20and%20her%20form%20which%20at%20rest%20had%20something%20of%20the%20massive%20

“A widely publicized incident during the Prince of Wales visits when Lane scored a victory over he Prince in an early form of bowling ten pins. Not only were women discouraged from physical activities as that game, it was shocking to compete with a male, much less to win

Hendricks p. 120
books.google.com
https://books.google.com/books?id=KqeXCgAAQBAJ&pg=PA119&lpg=PA119&dq=Harriet+%22Hallie%22+Lane&source=bl&ots=mcGOSDpGVb&sig=ACfU3U1qYxXPt0uKKIllDcyw6ylF1XXxQA&hl=en&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwieisCwze3mAhVvkeAKHUSjD6EQ6AEwEHoECAgQAQ#v=onepage&q=Harriet%20%22Hallie%22%20Lane&f=false

https://www.jstor.org/stable/40067721?seq=1#page_scan_tab_contents
Thomas P. Rossiter, Visit of the Prince of Wales, President Buchanan, and Dignitaries to the Tomb of Washington at Mount Vernon, October 1860, 1861, oil on canvas, Smithsonian American Art Museum, Bequest of Harriet Lane Johnston, 1906.9.18
commons.wikimedia.org 5 June 2004 Web. 5 January 2020
https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Smithsonian-Rossiter-Visit_of_the_Prince_of_Wales-2123.jpg

THE PRINCE AT WASHINGTON

… with Miss Lane, the Prince spent a couple of hours at Miss Smith’s institute for young ladies, where he indulged in a game at tenpins. In the evening the President entortained the diplomatic corps and a large party at dinner, and Miss Lane held a reception …
Published: Saturday 20 October 1860
Newspaper: Illustrated London News
County: London, England
archive.org 26 January 1997 Web. 5 January 2020
p. 363
https://archive.org/details/illustratedlondov37lond/page/n362
p. 365 (article)
https://archive.org/details/illustratedlondov37lond/page/n367

https://archive.org/details/illustratedlondov37lond/page/n2

Queen Victoria’s original intention was to dispatch her son simply to visit England’s western possessions in Canada and inaugurate the opening of the Victoria Bridge in Montreal. Yet, upon receipt of a letter from President Buchanan, the queen was pleased to extend the prince’s visit to the United States. Both Buchanan’s letter to the queen and her positive reply were printed in American newspapers, and their words illustrate the strong, personal bond felt between the two rulers. On June 4, 1860, President Buchanan wrote: “I need not say how happy I should be to give him [the Prince of Wales] a cordial welcome to Washington. You may well be assured that everywhere in this country he will be greeted by the American people in such a manner as cannot fail to prove gratifying to Your Majesty.” In a similar style, the queen replied that the prince would, with great pleasure, be received at the White House. “He will thus be able, at the same time, to mark the respect which he entertains for the Chief Magistrate of a great and friendly State and kindred nation.” The queen indicated that Prince Albert Edward would drop all royal title and travel officially incognito under the name
whitehousehistory.org 2 December 1998 Web. 15 January 2020
Journal Article
Reannealing of the Heart Ties: The Rhetoric of Anglo-American Kinship and the Politics of Reconciliation in the Prince of Wales’s 1860 Tour
SKYE MONTGOMERY
Journal of the Civil War Era
Vol. 6, No. 2 (JUNE 2016), pp. 193-219

Miss Harriet Lane, the Presiding First Lady of the White House
Frank Leslie’s Illustrated Newspaper1860-03-31
archive.org 26 January 1997 Web. 5 January 2020
https://archive.org/details/franklesliesillu00lesl/page/n202/mode/1up

In 1866, Miss Lane was married, at Wheatland, to Mr. Henry Elliott Johnston of Baltimore, a gentleman who had held her affections for many years. The congenial pair now abide in their luxurious home in Baltimore, and in private life, as wife and mother, she is as beautiful and more beloved than when, as Miss Lane, she was the proud lady of the President’s House. – Ames p. 235.
books.google.com 24 November 2005 Web. 5 January 2020

*
JOURNAL ARTICLE
Harriet Lane Johnston and the Formation of a National Gallery of Art

Homer T. Rosenberger
Records of the Columbia Historical Society, Washington, D.C.
Vol. 69/70, The 47th separately bound book (1969/1970), pp. 399-442
Published by: Historical Society of Washington, D.C.

jstor.org
https://www.jstor.org/stable/40067721
Page Count: 44
ACCESSED
https://www.jstor.org/stable/40067721?read-now=1&seq=1#metadata_info_tab_contents

https://www.jstor.org/stable/40067721?seq=1#page_scan_tab_contents
Thomas P. Rossiter, Visit of the Prince of Wales, President Buchanan, and Dignitaries to the Tomb of Washington at Mount Vernon, October 1860, 1861, oil on canvas, Smithsonian American Art Museum, Bequest of Harriet Lane Johnston, 1906.9.18
americanart.si.edu
https://americanart.si.edu/artwork/visit-prince-wales-president-buchanan-and-dignitaries-tomb-washington-mount-vernon-october

THE PRINCE AT WASHINGTON

… with Miss Lane, the Prince spent a couple of hours at Miss Smith’s institute for young ladies, where he indulged in a game at tenpins. In the evening the President entortained the diplomatic corps and a large party at dinner, and Miss Lane held a reception …
Published: Saturday 20 October 1860 Newspaper: Illustrated London News
County: London, England

Harper’s Weekly Oct. 13, 1860
p. 644
babel.hathitrust.org 6 December 2009 Web. 5 January 2020 https://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=mdp.39015006963360&view=1up&seq=602

Journal Article
Reannealing of the Heart Ties: The Rhetoric of Anglo-American Kinship and the Politics of Reconciliation in the Prince of Wales’s 1860 Tour
SKYE MONTGOMERY
Journal of the Civil War Era
Vol. 6, No. 2 (JUNE 2016), pp. 193-219

Miss Harriet Lane, the Presiding First Lady of the White House
Frank Leslie’s Illustrated Newspaper1860-03-31
archive.org 26 January 1997 Web. 5 January 2020
https://archive.org/details/franklesliesillu00lesl/page/n202/mode/1up

Frank Leslie image of HLJ
https://artsandculture.google.com/asset/miss-harriet-lane-the-presiding-first-lady-of-the-white-house/0QFnHBRuf_3KHg

JOURNAL ARTICLE
Harriet Lane, First Lady: Hostess Extraordinary in Difficult Times

Homer T. Rosenberger
Records of the Columbia Historical Society, Washington, D.C.
Vol. 66/68, The 46th separately bound book (1966/1968), pp. 102-153
Published by: Historical Society of Washington, D.C.
https://www.jstor.org/stable/40067251
Page Count: 52

Her will of 1895, as modified by two codicils, one of 1899 and the other dated only a few months before her death, left $300,000 to the Protestant Episcopal Cathedral Foundation of the District of Columbia to establish a school for boys—“in loving memory of our sons.” Half the money was to be used for the school building, to be “begun” within six months after the Cathedral Foundation received the bequest and to be known as the Lane-Johnston Building. The other half was to be invested for the maintenance of the school. The will added, “It is my wish that the said school shall be conducted and the said fund applied to provide specially for the free maintenance, education and training of choirboys, primarily for those in the service of the Cathedral.” stalbansschool.org
https://www.stalbansschool.org/about/history/our-founder-harriet-lane-johnston

Buchanan, James. (1910). “The Works of James Buchanan, Vol. collected and edited by John Bassett Moore Vol. XI 1800-1868. Philadelpha & London: J. P. Lippincott Co.
archive.org 26 January 1997 Web. 5 January 2020
https://archive.org/details/DKC0085/page/n2

p. 3 Buchanan Queen Victoria exchange re Prince of Wales visit to the United States
archive.org 26 January 1997 Web. 5 January 2020
https://archive.org/details/DKC0085/page/n23
HLJ JB Victorian 1860-1.png

*
wikipedia.org 27 July 2001 Web. 5 January 2020
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Crystal_Palace
Harriet wrote on May 4th her confidant Lily Macalester:
You have heard, dear Lily, of our long & boisterous voyage.
Everything is as comfortable and agreeable as possible, about my home – all things promise to me a pleasant visit.

After five days in the Old Country Harriet had some sharp opinions on the sub-standard caliber of Lord-ly honored public speakers:

Last evening we went to a Literary Club dinner – the ladies of course in the gallery. I was disappointed in the speaking – we had expected several distinguished speakers but only heard Lord Mahon, & Lord Stanley both men of talent. – Lord Mahon was the best speaker at the table – but he talked too much, and said too little. Lord Stanley talked a great deal, and said nothing. I was gratified to see the manner of conducting a public dinner here, but without doubt, our people are more prompt and eloquent – in fact, I have seen no improvements upon our country.

&

Friday 5. I was charmed at the Opera last night. Beethoven’s Fidelio was the piece. I heard the great Cravelli, and think her superb – the music is grand & effective.

Mr. Peabody’s box is opposite the Queen’s – she, Prince Albert, & two of the children were there. Mr P. is very kind – he had a large party of Americans last evening – and seems ready to entertain any who come

I only arrived here on Saturday evening (April 29th) and until presented to the Queen, will not be fairly in the “London world.”

My court-dress is now absorbing most of my attention, as I will be presented this day next week (11th). This is rather intense as I must act entirely for myself. . .I go to decide upon it today.” she wrote her confidant Lilly on May 4th.

Tomorrow and Saturday I go to dinner parties, and I suppose will be fairly launched in the gay world, after next week.

I had a glimpse of the Queen yesterday – she held a Levee (gentleman alone) at St. James! Lady Owsley took me to the Park, where we had an excellent view of all the Royal procession – The Life-guards are splendid looking men – mounted upon black horses – the Queen’s band played – of course, I was very much entertained – but I could scarcely convince myself that it was the ruler of this great kingdom- approaching – the glitter was so great it appeared like a grand show.

*

I must write you, dear Lily,
though, as yet I have not much of interest to relate, concerning myself. – I only arrived here on Saturday evening (April 29th) and until presented to the Queen, will not be fairly in the “London world.” Everything is as comfortable and agreeable as possible, about my home – all things promise to me a pleasant visit. Uncle met me on the Ship at Liverpool & is looking remarkably well, & in good spirits – is as kind and good as possible & decidedly the most elegant looking man I have seen since I left home. My court-dress is now absorbing most of my attention, as I will be presented this day week (11th). This is rather intense as I must act entirely for myself. . .I go to decide upon it today.”

Last evening we went to a Literary Club dinner – the ladies of course in the gallery. I was disappointed in the speaking – we had expected several distinguish speaker but only heard Lord Mahon, & Lord Stanley both men of talent. – Lord Mahon was the best speaker at the table – but he talked too much, and said to little. Lord Stanly talked a great deal, and said nothing. I was gratified to see the manner of conducting a public dinner here, but without doubt, our people are more prompt and eloquent – in fact, I have seen no improvements upon our country, except in servants, – here they are most respectful and respectable.

Tonight I go to the Opera, with Mr Peabody and a party he has formed for me. He is a younger looking man than I had expected to see, & seems very good and kind-hearted.

Tomorrow and Saturday I go to dinner parties, and I suppose will be fairly launched in the gay world, after next week.

“My court-dress is now absorbing MOST of my ATTENTION as I will be presented this day week (11th). This is rather intense as I must act entirely for myself. . .I go to decide upon it today.”

He made very particular inquires about your good Father. Tomorrow and Saturday I go to dinner parties, and I suppose will be fairly launched in the gay world, after next week. I had a glimpse of the Queen yesterday – she held a Levee (gentleman alone) at St. James! Lady Oasily took me to the Park, where we had an excellent view of all the Royal procession – The Life-guards are splendid looking men – mounted upon black horses – the Queen’s band played – of course, I was very much entertained – but I could scarcely convince myself that it was the ruler of this great kingdom- approaching the glitter was so great it appeared like a grand show.

From the carriage, she struck me as being handsome, but she is not generally considered so. Your friend Mr Corbon is here from Paris – his stay will be short – he is to be here this morning – unfortunately I will not see him, as I am obliged to go out. You know Mr Holford is dead.

You have heard, dear Lily, of our long & boisterous voyage – a fortnight reaching London. – two weeks. I have not ceased to mourn over the pleasant evening, I with you all, I was deprived of, when first we started.

Friday 5. I was charmed at the Opera last night. Beethoven’s Fidelio was the piece. I heard the great Cravelli, and think her superb – the music is grand & effective.

Mr Peabody’s box is opposite the Queen’s – she, Prince Albert, & two of the children were there. Mr P. is very kind – he had a large party of Americans last evening – and seems ready to entertain any who come, give my warmest love to Dame Trip – tell her I read the little book every day, and think it sweet. I gaze upon my daguerre’s with much tenderness, and is the kindness which gave them. Uncle is laboriously occupied writing all the time – in fact, too much confined. I hope you have written me, dear Lily, ere this – I will have the blues, if every steamer does not bring me some affectionate effusion and could you know the value of a single line, when so far separated from every home association, I know you would write often. I sincerely hope you safely recovered from your cold. My love to Mr M. tell him the gingerbread was very acceptable. Love to grandma and Mrs [illegible name] – and do write me often, dear Lily – I hope my next letter will be more
U. S. Legation, London. May 4. 1854.

[cross-written in the top margin of the fist page]
interesting for you. I have no doubt Uncle would send some message – but as the dispatch lay very close – I cannot wait for any tender words interesting as I know they would be to you. If you see Mrs Plitt tell her I am well – as I have not time to write her this mail. Love to every one & believe me ever dear Lily your sincerely affectionate
Hattie
Capt West is a glorious fellow – I [never met?] a more agreeable escort.
[letter sent to Lily Macalester]
Title: Letter from Harriet Lane to Lily Macalester Date: Thursday May 4, 1854
Location: I-Friends-2001-5
archives.dickinson.edu 9 September 2012 Web. 2 February 2020
http://archives.dickinson.edu/sites/all/files/files_document/I-Friends-2001-5b.pdf
archives.dickinson.edu 9 September 2012 Web. 2 February 2020
http://archives.dickinson.edu/archives-people/macalester-lily

**
Because her uncle caused a stir the year before when he presented himself before the Houses of Parliament for wearing merely his black suit, Harriet prepared for her debut

**
When May 11th came, Harriet stepped before the Queen and Prince Albert – likely wearing her domed and bell-shaped hoop skirt, supported by crinoline petticoats, with deep flounces or tiers, long bloomers and pantaloons trimmed with lace.

With judging eyes all around, she descended gracefully in a low slow perfect bow before Victoria then, ascending back up.

---

Curtis, George T. (1883). “Life of James Buchanan, fifteenth President of the United States.” New York, Harper & Brothers.
archive.org 26 January 1997 Web. 5 January 2020
https://archive.org/details/lifeofjamesbucha01curt/page/n8

frontispiece: Buchanan with signature
https://archive.org/details/lifeofjamesbucha01curt/page/n7

---

Photographic portrait of American journalist and author Mary Clemmer [Ames] Hudson (1831-1884). From American Women: Fifteen Hundred Biographies with Over 1,400 Portraits, Frances E. Willard and Mary A. Livermore, editors. Mast, Crowell & Kirkpatrick, 1897 (revised edition from 1893), vol. 1, p. 400

Capital, As a Women Sees Them.” Hartford, CT: A.D. Worthington & Co.
Grace, light and majestry seemed to make her atmosphere. Every motion was instinct with life, health and intelligence. Her superb physique gave the impression of intense. harmonious vitalty. Her eyes of deep violet, shed a constant, steady light, yet they could flash with rebuke, kind kindle with humor,or soften in tenderness. Her mouth was most peculiarly beautiful feature, capable of expressing infinite humor of absolute sweetness, while her classic head was crowned with masses of golden hair, always worn with perfect simplicity.
p. 233 books.google.com 24 November 2005 Web. 5 January 2020

England April 1854
https://journals.psu.edu/phj/article/viewFile/22939/22708

*

The Works of James Buchanan
Comprising his Speeches, State Papers, and Private Correspondence. Collected and Edited
By John Bassett Moore Vol. 9 (1853-1855)
babel.hathitrust.org 6 December 2009 Web. 5 January 2020
https://catalog.hathitrust.org/Record/000367615

p. 151 to HL Feb 21, 1854 Acquaints her with arrangements for their trip to England
p. 158 & 159 to HLJ
p. 275 to HLJ Nov. 4, 1854
p. 310 January 20, 1855 advises HJ as to her visit to England
p. 393 Aug. 20 & 23 1855 to HLJ
p. 395 to HLJ Aug 28, 1855 advises on personal matters
To Miss Lane, October 12 424
Comments on personal matters.

To Miss Lane, October 19 426 back home
Comments on personal matters.

The Works of James Buchanan
Comprising his Speeches, State Papers, and Private Correspondence. Collected and Edited
By John Bassett Moore Vol. 10 (1856-1860). Philadelphia & London: J. B. Lippincott Company. babel.hathitrust.org 6 December 2009 Web. 5 January 2020 https://catalog.hathitrust.org/Record/000367615

10 June – the Crystal Palace reopens in Sydenham, south London[4] with life-size dinosaur models in the grounds.

Title The “Crystal Palace” from the Great Exhibition, installed at
The “Crystal Palace” from the Great Exhibition, installed at Sydenham: sculptures of prehistoric creatures in the foreground. Coloured photo-mechanical print, later than 1854?.
wikipedia.org 27 July 2001 Web. 5 January 2020
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Crystal_Palace_Dinosaurs

*
The poem was written after the Light Cavalry Brigade suffered great casualties in the Battle of Balaclava. Tennyson wrote the poem based on two articles published in The Times: the first, published on 13 November 1854, contained the sentence “The British soldier will do his duty, even to certain death, and is not paralyzed by the feeling that he is the victim of some hideous blunder,” the last three words of which provided the inspiration for his phrase “Some one had blunder’d.”[3] The poem was written in a few minutes on December 2 of the same year, based on a recollection of The Times’s account;[4] Tennyson wrote other similar poems, like “Riflemen Form!”, in a very similar manner.[5]
wikipedia.org 27 July 2001 Web. 5 January 2020
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Charge_of_the_Light_Brigade_(poem)

*

The Victoria & Albert Museum writes of 1850s women’s dress:
“In the 1850s, women’s skirts were domed and bell-shaped, supported by crinoline petticoats. They often featured deep flounces or tiers. Long bloomers and pantaloons trimmed with lace were popular. Tiered cape-jackets were fashionable, as were paisley patterned shawls. Deep bonnets were worn and hair was swept into buns or side coils from a center parting.”
Victorian Magazine summarizes women’s fashion of the 1850s, writing:
“The mid-nineteenth century lady was a vision of elegance and grace in a beautiful Victorian dress lavishly trimmed with frills, flounces, lace, braid, fringe, ruche and ribbons. The fashion conscious Victorian lady created this appearance with a mysterious combination of the “uncomfortable and inconvenient” with the “frivolous and decorative.” Numerous heavy petticoats, layers of underclothes, a metal hoop skirt, tight corsets worn under-pointed boned bodices of whalebone and steel were hidden by an array of ornately accented under-sleeves, collars, pelerines, fans, gloves, hats, and parasols. The finished look was of elegance and grace with an illusion of ease and comfort.”
https://fashionhistory.fitnyc.edu/1850-1859/

Franz Xaver Winterhalter (1805–1873) Blue pencil.svg wikidata:Q168659
Franz Xaver Winterhalter: The Empress Eugenie Surrounded by her Ladies in Waiting
Title
English: The Empress Eugenie Surrounded by her Ladies in Waiting
Deutsch: Eugénie von Frankreich mit ihren Hofdamen
Français : L’impératrice Eugénie entourée de ses dames d’honneur
Object type painting
Genre portrait
Description
Français : Portrait collectif avec l’impératrice Eugénie de Montijo, la baronne de Pierres, la princesse d’Essling, la vicomtesse de Lezay-Marnésia, la marquise de Montebello, la duchesse de Bassano, la baronne de Malaret, la marquise de Las Marismas et la marquise de Latour-Maubourg
Depicted people
Eugénie de Montijo
Pauline van der Linden d’Hooghvorst
Date 1855
Medium oil on canvas
Dimensions Height: 300 cm (118.1 ″); Width: 420 cm (13.7 ft)
Collection Musée du Second Empire, Compiègne)
commons.wikimedia.org 5 June 2004 Web. 5 January 2020
https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Winterhalter_Franz_Xavier_The_Empress_Eugenie_Surrounded_by_her_Ladies_in_Waiting.jpg

*
The Illustrated London News 1855
https://www.iln.org.uk/iln_years/year/1855.htm

Jan-June 1855
Skating On The Grounds Of The Crystal Palace:
Very Large Folding Illustration Arrival Of The Emperor And Empress Of The French At Windsor Castle, The Fountains At The Crystal Palace:
*

Life of James Buchanan, fifteenth President of the United States. Volume 2
By Curtis, George Ticknor books.google.com 24 November 2005 Web. 5 January 2020
https://books.google.com/books?id=nSb7AwAAQBAJ&pg=PA147&lpg=PA147&dq=May+1855+Oxford+D.C.L.+Tennyson+Buchanan&source=bl&ots=OmSnwE3l8B&sig=ACfU3U06eWKCcgrLz2G-zni-MRFyXCWgDg&hl=en&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwiK7sHqy8rmAhXhmOAKHUSVDcsQ6AEwCnoECAoQAQ#v=onepage&q=May%201855%20Oxford%20D.C.L.%20Tennyson%20Buchanan&f=false
p. 142 starts
p. 147 Letter Friday July 13, 1855

p. 125 England is in a state of mourning for the loss of so many of her brave sons in the Crimea. The approaching “season” will, in consequence, be dull and this I shall bear with Christian fortitude. The duller the better for me, but not so for Harriet. She has enjoyed herself very much, and made many friends, but I do not see any bright prospect of her marriage

p. 147 commemoration loud cheers check with newspapers

p. 152 Oct 1855 Harriet leaving, Mrs Sturgis presenting with a watermelon
p. 153. every one says nice things about Harriet
p. 155 Henry Bedinger – Dutchess of Somerset
p. 159 death of sister

p. 168 JB leaving queen remember to HOLJ and Marquis of Lansdowne lay at her feet

London in May 1854
wikipedia.org 27 July 2001 Web. 5 January 2020
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1854_in_the_United_Kingdom

MISC BELOW

newspaper headlines scan — 1849 1850 silhouette

**
There they would start each day at the breakfast table discussing the latest news over the tall pages of their open newspapers. Increasingly Nunc saw progress – much progress in his Pygmalion niece.

Once she was enrolled at the Visitation Academy School on the outskirts of Washington, he permitted her to join him at his F Street home for one weekend of each month, gradually exposing her to the social circles of the political elite. (1847-1849)

visi.org https://www.visi.org/uploaded/About/Salesian_Center/Archives/RGIIs10Box1_f1Id933_3.pdf

visi.org https://www.visi.org/uploaded/About/Salesian_Center/Archives/RGIIs10Box1_f2Id934_1.pdf

visi.org https://www.visi.org/uploaded/About/Salesian_Center/Archives/RGIIs10Box1_f15Id947_1.pdf

** DELETE so some of the servants —-indentured servants 8:41

**

In 1848 James Buchanan purchased a wonderful estate called Wheatland

JOURNAL ARTICLE
Harriet Lane, First Lady: Hostess Extraordinary in Difficult Times

Homer T. Rosenberger
Records of the Columbia Historical Society, Washington, D.C.
Vol. 66/68, The 46th separately bound book (1966/1968), pp. 102-153
Published by: Historical Society of Washington, D.C.
https://www.jstor.org/stable/40067251
Page Count: 52 https://www.jstor.org/stable/40067251?seq=1

** Source of “Hal” nickname for Harriet Lane and “Nunc” for James Buchanan

Unique among first ladies, Harriet Lane acted as hostess for the only president who never married. James Buchanan was her favorite uncle and her guardian after she was orphaned at the age of eleven. And of all the ladies of the White House, few achieved such great success in deeply troubled times as this polished young woman in her 20s.

She was born in 1830 in the rich farming country of Franklin County, Pennsylvania. Her uncle supervised her sound education in private school, completed by two years at the Visitation Convent in Georgetown. By this time “Nunc” was secretary of state, and he introduced her to fashionable circles. In 1854 she joined him in London, where he was minister to the Court of St. James’s. Queen Victoria gave “dear Miss Lane” the rank of ambassador’s wife; admiring suitors gave her the fame of a beauty.

“Hal” Lane enlivened social gatherings with a mixture of spontaneity and poise. After the sadness of the Pierce administration, the capital welcomed its “Democratic Queen” in 1857. Harriet Lane filled the White House with gaiety and flowers, and guided its social life with enthusiasm and discretion, winning national popularity.

As sectional tensions increased, she sat formal dinner parties with care, giving dignitaries proper precedence while keeping political foes apart. Her task became impossible. Seven states had seceded by the time Buchanan retired from office. He thankfully returned with his niece to his spacious country home, Wheatland, near Lancaster, Pennsylvania.

The popular Miss Lane flirted happily with numerous beaux, but waited until she was almost 36 to marry. Within the next 18 years she faced one sorrow after another: the loss of her uncle, her two fine young sons, and her husband.

She decided to live in Washington, among friends made during happier years. She had acquired a sizable art collection, largely of European works, which she bequeathed to the government. Accepted after her death in 1903, it inspired an official of the Smithsonian Institution to call her the “First Lady of the National Collection of Fine Arts.”

Harriet also dedicated a generous sum to endow a home for invalid children at the Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore. It became an outstanding pediatric facility, and its reputation is a fitting memorial to the young lady who presided at the White House with such dignity and charm. The Harriet Lane Outpatient Clinics serve thousands of children today.
whitehousehistory.org 2 December 1998 Web. 15 January 2020
https://www.whitehousehistory.org/bios/harriet-lane

(1).

Sarah Polk portrait
This oil on canvas painting of First Lady Sarah Polk was completed by artist George Dury in 1883, 34 years after President James Polk’s term ended. Dury modeled his portrait after George P. A. Healy’s 1846 portrait of Mrs. Polk.
2 December 1998 Web. 15 January 2020
https://www.whitehousehistory.org/photos/fotoware?id=0353A0262CD940B8%20A317A2D4D507083D

insert in 1848

To put it mildly, Washington was a tense place in April 1848, and it was about to get even more so. Enter the Pearl. https://blogs.weta.org/boundarystones/tags/1840s

Goodrich, Samuel G. (Samuel Griswold), (1851). “”A pictorial history of America [electronic resource] : embracing both the northern and southern portions of the new world”
babel.hathitrust.org 6 December 2009 Web. 5 January 2020 https://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=aeu.ark:/13960/t6931p10c&view=thumb&seq=7

Image

Engraving of Harriet Lane as First Lady as appeared in Frank Leslie’s Illustrated weekly October, 1860. by Charles D. Fredricks
Albumen silver print
Image: 8.8 x 5.4 cm
Mount: 10.2 x 6.1 cm
1985.1232.0001

collections.eastman.org 6 January 2017 Web. 5 January 2020
https://collections.eastman.org/objects/35142/harriet-lane?ctx=38b2c35a-71fd-4a40-bb5a-70d4920c1416&idx=0

Harriet Lane polka by A. Allmuth. Philadelphia: Lee & Walker, [1861]
babel.hathitrust.org 6 December 2009 Web. 5 January 2020
https://catalog.hathitrust.org/Record/101809325

Music for the Nation: American Sheet Music, ca. 1820 to 1860
1840 to 1849
loc.gov 16 June 1997 Web. 5 January 2020
https://www.loc.gov/collections/american-sheet-music-1820-to-1860/articles-and-essays/greatest-hits-1820-60-variety-music-cavalcade/1840-to-1849/
pp. 149-168 (Plain text available)

LETTERS

Simple dress controversy:
In Mr. Buchanan’s case, “the simple dress of an American citizen” was an affair of very easy determination. He wore at all times the kind of dress in which his figure appears in the frontispiece of the present volume; and his personal dignity was quite sufficient to make that dress appropriate anywhere. Although he was a democrat of democrats, and cared little for show of any kind, he was accustomed to pay that deference to the usages of society which a gentleman is always anxious to observe, and to which no one knew better than he how to accommodate himself. He was the last man in the world to attach undue importance to trifles, and it may well be supposed he was annoyed, when he found rather suddenly that the circular of the Secretary was about to cause a serious difficulty in regard to his position at the British court. The first intimation he had of this difficulty is described in a despatch which he wrote to Mr. Marcy on the 28th of October.

No. 13. Legation, Etc., London, October 28, 1853.

Sir:—

I deem it proper, however distasteful the subject may be, both to you and myself, to relate to you a conversation which I had on Tuesday last with Major-General Sir Edward Oust, the master of ceremonies at this court, concerning my court costume. I met him at the Traveller’s Club, and after an introduction, your circular on this subject became the topic of conversation. He expressed much opposition to my appearance at court “in the simple dress of an American citizen.” I said that such was the wish of my own Government and I intended to conform to it, unless the queen herself would intimate

(108)
her desire that I should appear in costume. In that event, I should feel inclined to comply with her majesty’s wishes. He said that her majesty would not object to receive me at court in any dress I chose to put on; but whilst he had no authority to speak for her, he yet did not doubt it would be disagreeable to her if I did not conform to the established usage. He said I could not of course expect to be invited to court balls or court dinners where all appeared in costumes; that her majesty never invited the bishops to balls, not deeming it compatible with their character; but she invited them to concerts, and on these occasions, as a court dress was not required, I would also be invited. He grew warm by talking, and said that, whilst the queen herself would make no objections to my appearance at court in any dress I thought proper, yet the people of England would consider it presumption. I became somewhat indignant in my turn, and said that whilst I entertained the highest respect for her majesty, and desired to treat her with the deference which was eminently her due, yet it would not make the slightest difference to me, individually, whether I ever appeared at court.

He stated that in this country an invitation from the queen was considered a command.

I paid no attention to this remark, but observed that the rules of etiquette at the British court were more strict even than in Kussia. Senator Douglas of the United States had just returned from St. Petersburg. When invited to visit the czar in costume, he informed Count Nesselrode that he could not thus appear. The count asked him in what dress he appeared before the President of the United States. Mr. Douglas answered in the dress he then wore. The count, after consulting the emperor, said that was sufficient, and in this plain dress he visited the emperor at the palace and on parade, and had most agreeable conversations with him on both occasions.

Sir Edward then expressed his gratification at having thus met me accidentally,—said he had just come to town for that day and should leave the next morning, but would soon do himself the honor of calling upon me.

Although he disclaimed speaking by the authority of the queen, yet it appeared both to myself and Colonel Lawrence, who was present, that they must have had some conversation in the court circle on the subject. I entertain this belief the more firmly, as Sir Edward has since talked to a member of this legation in the same strain.

So then, from present appearances, it is probable I shall be placed socially in Coventry on this question of dress, because it is certain that should her majesty not invite the American minister to her balls and dinners, he will not be invited to the balls and dinners of her courtiers. This will be to me, personally, a matter of not the least importance, but it may deprive me of the opportunity of cultivating friendly and social relations with the ministers and other courtiers which I might render available for the purpose of obtaining important information and promoting the success of my mission.

I am exceedingly anxious to appear “at court in the simple dress of an American citizen;” and this not only because it accords with my own taste,

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but because it is certain that if the minister to the court of St. James should appear in uniform, your circular will become a dead letter in regard to most, if not all, the other ministers and charge’s of our country in Europe.

The difficulty in the present case is greatly enhanced by the fact that the sovereign is a lady, and the devotion of her subjects towards her partakes of a mingled feeling of loyalty and gallantry. Any conduct, therefore, on my part which would look like disrespect towards her personally could not fail to give great offence to the British people. . . . James Buchanan to Harriet Lane
Curtis, George T. (1883). “Life of James Buchanan: Fifteenth President of the United States, Volume 2.” New York, NY: Harper Brothers.
books.google.com 24 November 2005 Web. 5 January 2020
pp. 107-109.

https://books.google.com/books?pg=PA109&lpg=PA114&dq=Laura+Pleasanton+Clemmie+Pleasanton&id=qk4DAAAAYAAJ#v=onepage&q=Laura%20Pleasanton%20Clemmie%20Pleasanton&f=false

More on simple dress controversy:

early in February, (1854), Parliament was to be opened by the queen in person. Mr. Buchanan did not attend the ceremony; and thereupon there was an outery in the London press. The following extract from a despatch to Mr. Marcy gives a full account of the whole matter, up to the date:

You will perceive by the London journals, the Times, the Morning Post, the News, the Morning Herald, the Spectator, the Examiner, Lloyd’s, &c, &c., copies of which I send you, that my absence from the House of Lords, at the opening of Parliament, has produced quite a sensation. Indeed, I have found difficulty in preventing this incident from becoming a subject of inquiry and remark in the House of Commons. All this is peculiarly disagreeable to me, and has arisen entirely from an indiscreet and rather offensive remark of the London Times, in the account which that journal published of the proceedings at the opening of Parliament, But for this, the whole matter would probably have passed away quietly, as I had desired.

pp. 110-111

James Buchanan to his niece Harriet as she prepares to come to England:
London, December 9, 1853.

Mr Dear Harriet:—

I received your favor of the 14th ultimo in due time, and thank you for the information it contained, all of which was interesting to me.

In regard to your coming to London with Colonel Lawrence and his lady, should he be married in February next, I have this to say: Your passage at that season of the year would, unless by a happy accident, be stormy and disagreeable, though not dangerous. I have scarcely yet recovered from the effects of the voyage, and should you be as bad a sailor as myself, and have a rough passage, it might give your constitution a shock. The month of April would be a much more agreeable period to cross the Atlantic; and you would still arrive here in time for the most fashionable and longer part of the fashionable season.

The cholera epidemic in London:

It is my duty to inform you that a general conviction prevails here, on the part of Lord Palmerston, the secretary of the interior, and the distinguished physicians, as well as among the intelligent people, that the cholera will be very bad in London and other parts of England during the latter part of the next summer and throughout the autumn. They are now making extensive preparations, and adopting extensive sanitary measures to render the mortality as small as possible. The London journals contain articles on the subject almost every day. Their reason for this conviction is,—that we have just had about as many cases of cholera during the past autumn, as there were during the autumn in a former year, preceding the season when it raged so extensively and violently. Now this question will be for your own consideration. I think it my duty to state the facts, and it will be for you to decide whether you will postpone your visit until the end of the next autumn for this reason, or at least until we shall see whether the gloomy anticipations here are likely to be realized.

I still anticipate difficulty about my costume; but should this occur, it will probably continue throughout my mission. It is, therefore, no valid reason why you should postpone your visit. In that event you must be prepared to share my fate. So far as regards the consequences to myself, I do not care a button for them; but it would mortify me very much to see you treated differently from other ladies in your situation.

If this costume affair should not prove an impediment, I feel that I shall get along very smoothly here. The fashionable world, with the exception of the high officials, are all out of London, and will remain absent until the last of February or beginning of March. I have recently been a good deal in the society of those who are now here, and they all seem disposed to treat me very kindly, especially the ladies. Their hours annoy me very much. My invitations to dinner among them are all for a quarter before eight, which means about half-past that hour. There is no such thing as social visiting here of an evening. This is all done between two and six in the afternoon, if such, visits may be called social. I asked Lady Palmerston what was meant by the word “early ” placed upon her card of invitation for an evening reception, and she informed me it was about ten o’clock. The habits, and customs, and business of the world here render these hours necessary. But how ridiculous it is in our country, where no such necessity exists, to violate the laws of nature in regard to hours, merely to follow the fashions of this country.

Should you be at Mr. Ward’s, I would thank you to present my kind love to Miss Ellen. I hope you will not forget the interests of Eskridge in that quarter. You inform me that Sallie Grier and Jennie Pleasanton were about to be married. I desire to be remembered with special kindness to Mrs. Jenkins. I can never forget “The Auld Lang Syne” with her and her family. Give my love also to Kate Reynolds. Remember me to Miss Hetty, or as you would say, Miss Hettie, for whom I shall ever entertain a warm regard. I send this letter open to Eskridge, so that he may read it and send it to your direction. From your affectionate uncle, NOTE: Kate Reynolds lived in Shepherdstown).

James Buchanan

pp. 109-110
https://books.google.com/books?pg=PA109&lpg=PA114&dq=Laura+Pleasanton+Clemmie+Pleasanton&id=qk4DAAAAYAAJ#v=onepage&q=Laura%20Pleasanton%20Clemmie%20Pleasanton&f=false

Resolution of simple dress controversy:
London, February 18th, 1854. My Dear Harriet:—

I dined on Wednesday last with the queen, at Buckingham Palace. Both she and Prince Albert were remarkably civil, and I had quite a conversation with each of them separately. But the question of costume still remains: and from this I anticipate nothing but trouble in several directions. I was invited “in frock-dress” to the dinner, and of course I had no difficulty. To-morrow will be the first levee of the queen, and my appearance there in a suit of plain clothes will, I have no doubt, produce quite a sensation, and become a subject of gossip for the whole court.

London, February 24,1854. Mr. Peabody handed me at the dinner-table the enclosed, which he made me promise to send to you. Mr. Macalester had mentioned your name to him.

The dress question, after much difficulty, has been finally and satisfactorily settled. I appeared at the levee on Wednesday last, in just such a dress as I have worn at the President’s one hundred times. A black coat, white waistcoat and cravat and black pantaloons and dress boots, with the addition of a very plain black-handled and black-hilted dress sword. This to gratify those who have yielded so much, and to distinguish me from the upper court servants. I knew that I would be received in any dress I might wear; but could not have anticipated that I should be received in so kind and distinguished a manner. Having yielded they did not do things by halves. As I approached the queen, an arch but benevolent smile lit up her countenance;— as much as to say, you are the first man who ever appeared before me at court in such a dress. I confess that I never felt more proud of being an American than when I stood in that brilliant circle, “in the simple dress of an American citizen.” I have no doubt the circular is popular with a majority of the people of England. Indeed, many of the most distinguished members of Parliament have never been at court, because they would not wear the prescribed costume.

p. 113
https://books.google.com/books?pg=PA109&lpg=PA114&dq=Laura+Pleasanton+Clemmie+Pleasanton&id=qk4DAAAAYAAJ#v=onepage&q=Laura%20Pleasanton%20Clemmie%20Pleasanton&f=false

From James Buchanan London – February 21m 1854: dates of the passage of Harriet Lane’s to England:
I intended to write you a long letter to-day, but an unexpected pressure of business will prevent me from doing this before the despatch bag closes. I now write merely to inform you that I have made every arrangement for your passage with Captain West in the Atlantic, either on Saturday, the 15th, or Saturday, the 29th April
p. 114
https://books.google.com/books?pg=PA114&lpg=PA114&dq=Laura+Pleasanton+Clemmie+Pleasanton&id=qk4DAAAAYAAJ#v=onepage&q=Laura%20Pleasanton%20Clemmie%20Pleasanton&f=false

Curtis, George T. (1883). “Life of James Buchanan: Fifteenth President of the United States, Volume 2.” New York, NY: Harper Brothers.
books.google.com 24 November 2005 Web. 5 January 2020

Personal guidance from James Buchanan to his niece soon to arrtive in London

The first wish of my heart is to see you comfortably and respectably settled in life; but ardently as I desire this, you ought never to marry any person for whom you think you would not have a proper degree of affection. You inform me of your conquest, and I trust it may be of such a character as will produce good fruit.

p. 114 (Peabody)
https://books.google.com/books?pg=PA114&lpg=PA114&dq=Laura+Pleasanton+Clemmie+Pleasanton&id=qk4DAAAAYAAJ#v=onepage&q=Laura%20Pleasanton%20Clemmie%20Pleasanton&f=false

Cracovienne (Dance)
73 views
•Sep 14, 2015
Village People Folk Band – Topic
youtube.com 28 April 2005 Web. 5 January 2020
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qZWr8VsE64g

A deleted scene featuring the song “Kathleen Mavourneen”, from the film “Gods and Generals”.

youtube.com 28 April 2005 Web. 5 January 2020
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EQPCBYjcbYw

Daguerrotype of Hawthorne, Whipple & Black, 1848
wikiwand.com 18 July 2013 Web. 7 January 2020
https://www.wikiwand.com/en/Nathaniel_Hawthorne

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** Nunc nickname for James Buchanan source
When James Buchanan became the first bachelor President, various rumors circulated in Washington society about the unusual situation. One tale told the story of a youthful Buchanan who had vowed never to marry when a misunderstanding with his fiancée caused her suicide. Another more persistent account cited Buchanan’s longtime relationship with the also unmarried Senator William Rufus Devane King from Alabama. The two had lived together in Washington for sixteen years, and letters between them indicate that Buchanan and King had, at the very least, shared a deep friendship. In any event, Buchanan was without a wife but not at a loss for female companionship. He surrounded himself with the wives of his friends and political advisers and contented himself with the company of his ward and niece, Harriet Lane.

**”Nunc,” as Harriet referred to him, had educated his niece about the importance of politics, discussing political issues with her. When James Buchanan became President, he asked Harriet to assume the duties of presidential hostess.

The role did not intimidate the twenty-seven-year-old. When her uncle served as ambassador to Britain, Harriet experienced life at the British court and became a favorite of Queen Victoria. During James Buchanan’s 1856 campaign for the presidency, Harriet hosted events which helped promote his bid for office. Thus, when Harriet entered the White House, she took up her duties with great confidence. Although she pursued no one special project, Harriet used her position to draw attention to the fine arts. She invited artists to her events and began to lobby for a national art gallery. Interest in art spurred another passion. During her time in England, Harriet began to study, collect, and promote Native American arts at a time when the arts of Africa and Asia were generating interest in the West. Her appreciation of indigenous artistic expression led to her tolerance of minorities in general and to her interest in the welfare of Native Americans in particular. She worked with reformers to educate lawmakers about the medical and educational needs of the various tribes and tried to stop the sale of liquor on the reservations. Because of her efforts, the Chippewa Nation heralded her as the “Great Mother of the Indians.”If Harriet Lane was a “Great Mother” to some, she was a “Democratic Queen” to many others. After four years of the sad and dour Jane Pierce, Americans were ready for a vivacious social leader. Harriet Lane did not disappoint them. Her inaugural gown marked her as a fashion icon, and her penchant for carrying bouquets of roses and vacationing at exclusive spas made her a glamorous figure. Her youth and beauty captivated an American public which named flowers, perfumes, poems, and clothing for her, treating her as American royalty. But some soon wondered if their “Democratic Queen” would actually become Queen of England. In 1860, Edward Albert, the Prince of Wales, paid a visit to the United States. His trip was followed closely by the press, which noted that the couple toured Mount Vernon, danced together, and played games of tenpins. But even as Harriet entertained English royalty, she was more than a social hostess for her uncle; she was in many ways James Buchanan’s partner. He clearly appreciated Harriet’s role and accorded her all the prestige enjoyed by a presidential spouse. Despite the pair’s closeness, the relationship at times grew strained. Harriet never appreciated having to entertain suitors with “Nunc” looking on, and she resented him opening her mail. Her discontent was evident when, in 1859, she took a three-month summer vacation from the capital and the President.

Despite their differences, Harriet remained an important source of support for her uncle during the sectional crisis. Like most Americans, Harriet had been aware of the increasing tensions in the country. It appears that she privately opposed slavery and Southern secession, though she worried about the country’s economic future if the “peculiar institution” were abolished. Publicly, however, she remained silent on the issue of slavery and insisted that her guests follow her example. Her social skills began to serve a political purpose as she manipulated complex seating arrangements at dinner parties and entertainments, keeping political foes apart and dispensing equal favor to all. Unfortunately, her efforts at keeping the peace at White House social gatherings translated neither into a smooth presidency for her uncle nor into peace for the nation. Indeed, the commencement of the Civil War and Abraham Lincoln’s valiant and successful struggle to save the Union, as well as the shrewishness of Mary Todd Lincoln, have eclipsed both the presidency of James Buchanan and the tenure of Harriet Lane.
millercenter.org 6 March 2005 Web. 4 February 2020
https://millercenter.org/president/buchanan/essays/lane-1857-firstlady

“At White House receptions,” said Mrs. Young, “and on all state occasions, the sight of this stately beauty, standing beside her distinguished grey-haired uncle, made a unique and delightful contrast which thousands flocked to see.” Admirers copied her hair and clothing styles, and innumerable little girls were named for her. She was particularly flattered when the popular song “Listen to the Mockingbird” was dedicated to her. Harriet also began the tradition for First Ladies to promote a special cause and with Miss Lane it was improving the living conditions of American Indians on reservations. She also was intentional in inviting promising and talented artists and musicians to the White House.

Mrs. Young was effusive in her praise of the young woman. “Her eyes, of deep violet, shed a constant, steady light, yet they could flash with rebuke, kindle with humor, or soften in tenderness. Her mouth was her most peculiarly-beautiful features, capable of expressing infinite humor or absolute sweetness, while her classic head was crowned with masses of golden hair.” Another honor she received was when a warship was named for her but when she entertained a group of friends on the ship at a private party, her uncle was not so happy. The president as well as the press chided her because of her inappropriate use of government property.

Since the sectional differences that would culminate in the Civil War meant opposing political factions, these were reflected in the White House guests. It meant Harriet had to be particularly careful in her planning to assure proper diplomats precedence and also to keep political foes separated. Eventually as emotions about the current issues became more intense she often could not please everyone.

In 1860 the year before her uncle left office, Harriet welcomed the Prince of Wales (Later King Edward VII) to the White House as he toured America. Though dancing was not a part of the entertainment at that time, there was abundant music and an elegant atmosphere suitable for visiting royalty. According to Mrs. Young, the Prince “presented his portrait to Mr. Buchanan and a set of engravings to Miss Lane, as ‘a slight mark of his grateful recollection of the hospitable reception and agreeable visit at the White House.’ “ The bedroom occupied by the future king was known for many years as the Prince of Wales room, though the chamber attained another place in history when Willie Lincoln died there in 1862.
civilwarballgowns.com 12 October 2007 Web. 4 February 2020
https://www.civilwarballgowns.com/blog/2014/12/16/harriet-lane

*

Harriet Lane Johnston Symposium June 10 2015
Joan C. McCulloh
issuu.com 16 May 2007 Web. 4 February 2020
https://issuu.com/fcvb/docs/harriet_booklet