Ruth Cleveland: The Life and Legacy of 'Baby Ruth'
In the late 19th century, few children captured the American public's imagination quite like Ruth Eva Cleveland. Known affectionately as "Baby Ruth," she was the eldest child of Grover Cleveland, the only U.S. president to serve two non-consecutive terms, and First Lady Frances Cleveland. Her birth and early years were marked by intense national fascination, turning a private family moment into a public sensation.
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Key Facts
- Full Name: Ruth Eva Cleveland
- Parents: President Grover Cleveland and Frances Cleveland
- Lifespan: October 3, 1891 – January 7, 1904
- Education: Attended Miss Fine's School in Princeton, New Jersey
- Cause of Death: Heart failure following a diagnosis of diphtheria
- Burial Site: Princeton Cemetery
Early Life and National Fame
Born in New York City on October 3, 1891, Ruth's arrival occurred between her father's two terms in office, sparking a wave of national excitement. The public's obsession was so great that over 40 varieties of chrysanthemums were named in her honor at a Boston flower show. Despite the fame, the Cleveland family maintained a level of privacy, forbidding professional photography and requesting discretion from amateur photographers.
Frances Cleveland took a hands-on approach to motherhood, performing many of the duties typically assigned to nurses for women of her social standing. Ruth spent her early years moving between the White House and "Gray Gables," the family's summer retreat on Cape Cod.
The 1892 Presidential Campaign
Ruth unexpectedly became a figure in the 1892 United States presidential election. She was often compared to Benjamin Harrison McKee (known as "Baby McKee"), the grandson of Benjamin Harrison. The two children were featured in campaign materials, including a popular song with lyrics claiming they would "run the nation's Presidency," and placards urging voters to "Vote for Papa!"
Final Years and Passing
After her father's second term ended, the family relocated to Westland Mansion in Princeton, New Jersey. It was here that Ruth attended Miss Fine's School. However, her childhood was cut short by illness.
On January 2, 1904, Ruth contracted diphtheria, a serious bacterial infection affecting the mucous membranes of the throat and nose. Although doctors initially believed the case was mild, Ruth's condition deteriorated rapidly. She died of heart failure on January 7, 1904, at the age of 12.
The tragedy left a lasting mark on the family; they never returned to their Cape Cod home, Gray Gables, after her death. Ruth was laid to rest in Princeton Cemetery. Notably, Woodrow Wilson, then the president of Princeton University, attended the funeral, though Mrs. Cleveland did not attend upon medical advice.
The 'Baby Ruth' Candy Bar Controversy
Ruth Cleveland's name later became central to a legal battle involving the Curtiss Candy Company. The company produced a confection known as "Kandy Kake" from 1900 to 1920, which was renamed the "Baby Ruth" bar in 1921.
When legendary baseball player George Herman "Babe" Ruth sued the company for using his name without compensation, Curtiss Candy Company claimed the bar was actually named after Ruth Cleveland. However, historians and critics, including Richard Sandomir of The New York Times, have questioned this claim. The renaming occurred 17 years after the president's daughter had died and coincided exactly with Babe Ruth's peak popularity and his record-breaking 54 home runs in 1920.
Despite the circumstantial evidence suggesting a connection to the baseball star, Babe Ruth lost the lawsuit in 1931.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Birth Date | October 3, 1891 |
| Death Date | January 7, 1904 |
| Parents | Grover and Frances Cleveland |
| Residences | White House, Gray Gables, Westland Mansion |
| Education | Miss Fine's School |
| Notable Connection | Alleged namesake of the Baby Ruth candy bar |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Ruth Cleveland?
Ruth Cleveland, known as "Baby Ruth," was the eldest daughter of the 22nd and 24th U.S. President Grover Cleveland and First Lady Frances Cleveland.
How did Ruth Cleveland die?
Ruth died of heart failure on January 7, 1904, five days after being diagnosed with diphtheria.
Was the Baby Ruth candy bar named after her?
The Curtiss Candy Company claimed it was named after Ruth Cleveland to avoid paying royalties to baseball player Babe Ruth. However, the timing of the renaming suggests it was more likely inspired by the athlete.
Where is Ruth Cleveland buried?
She is buried in Princeton Cemetery in New Jersey.
What role did Ruth play in the 1892 election?
She became a symbol of the campaign, often paired with Benjamin Harrison McKee in songs and placards to humanize the candidates and attract voters.