Elizabeth Monroe: Life and Legacy of the Fifth First Lady
Elizabeth Monroe, born Elizabeth Kortright, served as the First Lady of the United States during the presidency of her husband, James Monroe. Her life reflects the complexities of the early American Republic, spanning the social circles of New York City and the political heights of Washington, D.C.
Early Life and Family Background
Elizabeth was the youngest daughter of Lawrence Kortright, a prominent figure in New York City. The Kortright family's history is intertwined with the economic and social structures of the era. Records indicate that Lawrence Kortright was involved in the purchase of enslaved people, including Sampson and Kaiser in 1750, and later placed advertisements for the return of runaway enslaved individuals, such as a man named Paris in 1780.
The Kortright household faced significant tragedies during the American Revolutionary period. In September 1777, Elizabeth's mother, Hannah Kortright, passed away at the age of 39 due to complications during childbirth. Shortly thereafter, on September 10, 1777, a child of the family died at 13 months old from flux and fever. The family also suffered material loss when a major fire broke out on Cruger's Wharf on August 3, 1778, which greatly damaged the home of Lawrence Kortright.
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Marriage to James Monroe
Elizabeth married James Monroe, then a Member of Congress for the State of Virginia, on February 16, 1786. The ceremony took place at her father's house on Great Queen Street in New York City and was officiated by Minister Benjamin Moore of Trinity Church.
The union merged the political ambitions of Virginia with the social standing of New York. Throughout their marriage, the couple navigated the demands of public service, including James Monroe's roles as a minister to Great Britain and eventually as the fifth President of the United States.
Family and Children
The Monroes' family life was marked by both joy and loss. They had several children, including daughters who entered prominent society. Their eldest daughter, Eliza Monroe (born circa December 1786), married George Hay, Esq., of Richmond, Virginia, in October 1808. She later passed away on January 27, 1840, in Paris, France.
Another daughter, Maria Hester, married Samuel L. Gouverneur and died on June 20, 1850, at Oak Hill in Loudoun County, Virginia. The couple also experienced the grief of losing an infant son, James Spence Monroe, who died after several days of illness.
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Key Facts
- Full Name: Elizabeth Kortright Monroe.
- Marriage Date: February 16, 1786.
- Spouse: James Monroe, 5th U.S. President.
- Father: Lawrence Kortright of New York City.
- Children: Included daughters Eliza (married George Hay) and Maria Hester (married Samuel L. Gouverneur).
- Residence: Lived in New York, Virginia, and Washington, D.C.
Summary of the Monroe Family Timeline
| Date | Event | Details |
|---|---|---|
| February 16, 1786 | Marriage | Elizabeth Kortright marries James Monroe in New York. |
| Circa Dec 1786 | Birth of Daughter | Birth of Eliza Monroe. |
| October 15, 1808 | Daughter's Marriage | Eliza Monroe marries George Hay. |
| 1817–1825 | First Lady Tenure | Elizabeth serves as First Lady during James Monroe's presidency. |
| June 20, 1850 | Death of Daughter | Maria Hester Monroe dies at Oak Hill, Virginia. |
Frequently Asked Questions
When and where did Elizabeth Monroe marry James Monroe?
Elizabeth Kortright married James Monroe on February 16, 1786, at her father's home on Great Queen Street in New York City.
Who were Elizabeth Monroe's parents?
She was the youngest daughter of Lawrence Kortright and Hannah Kortright of New York City.
How many children did Elizabeth and James Monroe have?
The couple had several children, including daughters Eliza and Maria Hester, as well as a son, James Spence Monroe, who died in infancy.
What tragedies did the Kortright family face before Elizabeth's marriage?
The family lost Hannah Kortright (Elizabeth's mother) and an infant child in 1777, and their home was significantly damaged by a fire in August 1778.
Where did Elizabeth's daughter Eliza die?
Eliza Monroe Hay died on January 27, 1840, at her residence in the Champs Elysees in Paris, France.