Ellen Lewis Herndon Arthur

Biography

Ellen Lewis Herndon Arthur won admiration for her lively mind and gracious hospitality, qualities she brought from her prosperous Virginia family into her marriage with Chester A. Arthur. As he rose through New York politics, she supported his career while pursuing charitable causes and offering solace to veterans and their families.

She died just months before he became president, but her spirit continued to guide him; he often spoke of her influence when making decisions, and her memory gave comfort during the years he served the nation.