Details
June 2, 2025
Helen “Nellie” Herron Taft
June 2, 1861
Helen “Nellie” Herron Taft – Born June 2, 1861 (Cincinnati, OH). Died May 22, 1943 (Washington, D.C.)
- Helen Taft was the first first lady to own and drive a car.
- As first lady she successfully advocated for safety standards in federal workspaces.
White House Years: 1909-1913
○ The Japanese cherry blossom trees planted around the Tidal Basin were planted at the request of Helen Taft.
○ She was the first first lady to ride with her husband from the inauguration to the inaugural parade
○ She was the first first lady to openly support women’s suffrage.
○ She was known for her large and lavish social events
Quotation
- “I had always had the satisfaction of knowing almost as much as he about the politics and intricacies of any situation. I think any woman can discuss with her husband topics of national interest. I became familiar with more than politics. It involved real statesmanship.”
- - “Higher education for women? My daughter has elected to take a full college course...I believe in the best and most thorough education for everyone, men and women, and it is my proudest boast that all of my children are studious.”
