A Personal Fun Fact

From left to right: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Teddy Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln. Image by Jim Olah from Pixabay (cropped by writer)

Martha “Patsy” Jefferson, daughter of President Thomas Jefferson, has a unique distinction. She is one of only two First Daughters to also hold the title and responsibilities of First Lady (the other being Eliza Monroe Hay).

Martha was born September 27, 1772, in Charlottesville City, Virginia. Her mother, Martha Wayles Jefferson died in 1782. When Thomas took office as President in 1801 Patsy assumed the duties of White House hostess and First Lady and was to carry this responsibility during much of Jefferson’s time in office.

Why is this a personal fun fact?

Because Patsy is my 5th cousin, which means… anyone? Anyone?

Yep, Thomas and I kinfolk. Anyone who isn’t working on a family tree is really missing out. It’s a great stress reliever and you never know what you might find!