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June 2, 2025

Helen “Nellie” Herron Taft

June 2, 1861

Helen Herron Taft

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.”

 

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