Love & Leadership: Presidential Love Stories for Valentine’s Day
– By #The National Presidential Wax Museum
(Plus some swoon-worthy quotes)
Valentine’s Day isn’t just about chocolates and roses—it’s also a time to reflect on great love stories throughout history! Even U.S. Presidents have had their share of romance, from whirlwind courtships to lifelong partnerships. Here are some heartwarming and surprising tales of presidential love to celebrate this Valentine’s Day!
1. George & Martha Washington: A Love Built to Last
America’s first president wasn’t just the “Father of the Nation”—he was also a devoted husband. George and Martha Washington shared a deep bond, exchanging affectionate letters despite the demands of the Revolution. In one letter, George confessed, "I retain an unalterable affection for you, which neither time nor distance can change." Talk about charming!
2. John & Abigail Adams: Love Letters for the Ages
If you think long-distance relationships are tough, imagine being apart during the birth of a new nation! John and Abigail Adams spent many months apart while John helped shape America’s future, but their letters are full of love and admiration. Abigail once wrote, “My Dearest Friend, how much I miss you!” Their partnership was built on mutual respect, making them one of history’s most iconic couples.
3. Lincoln’s Lasting Valentine’s Story
Abraham Lincoln’s love life had its share of ups and downs. Before he married Mary Todd, he was engaged to another woman—Ann Rutledge—who tragically passed away. Despite this heartbreak, Lincoln and Mary later built a marriage that endured through the Civil War. Mary once said, “My husband is my all,” proving that even presidents need a strong support system.
4. Teddy Roosevelt’s Love That Shaped History
Teddy Roosevelt’s first love, Alice Hathaway Lee, tragically passed away just days after giving birth to their daughter. Heartbroken, he once wrote in his diary, “The light has gone out of my life.” But love found him again when he met Edith Carow, his childhood sweetheart, who became his closest confidante and First Lady. Their marriage helped Roosevelt navigate the challenges of the presidency.
5. Ronald & Nancy Reagan: A Hollywood Love Story in the White House
Ronald and Nancy Reagan’s love story could have been a movie! They wrote countless love notes to each other, and Ronald often called Nancy “my Nancy” in letters. One Valentine’s Day, he wrote: “I more than love you, I’m not whole without you.” Their deep devotion lasted throughout their lives, making them one of the most romantic first couples in history.
Bonus: The Bachelor Presidents!
Not all presidents had a First Lady! James Buchanan was the only lifelong bachelor president, and Grover Cleveland entered the White House single but later married Frances Folsom—who was 27 years younger than him! Their wedding in the White House remains the only one for a sitting president.
Next month, come visit the Presidential Wax Museum to see these famous lovebirds in wax form! History isn’t just about politics—it’s also about the love stories that shaped our nation.
Happy Valentine’s Day from all of us at the Presidential Wax Museum!
Last Modified: