National Portrait Gallery Acquires Dolley Madison Daguerreotype

The National Portrait Gallery acquired an 1846 daguerreotype believed to be the first photograph of a U.S. first lady, Dolley Madison, showcasing her in her later years. Dolley Madison, known for her role as a White House hostess, is credited with shaping the modern idea of a first lady and fostering bipartisan cooperation among leaders. The photo, purchased for $456,000, was taken by John Plumbe Jr. and offers insight into Madison's life beyond her social functions. This significant addition to the National Portrait Gallery's collection sheds light on Madison's historical significance and her influence as a first lady, joining other early photographic portraits of U.S. presidents and first ladies.