#31: Mary Elizabeth “Betty” Taylor Bliss

Betty Taylor Bliss was a remarkable figure who stepped into the role of White House hostess during her father’s presidency, exuding charm and sophistication in a turbulent time. Known for her wit and grace, she hosted gatherings emphasizing unity in an era of mounting sectional tensions.

Betty’s personal warmth helped soften her father’s stern military image, fostering connections across political divides. Her marriage to William Wallace Smith Bliss, a respected army officer, further tied her to the nation’s political fabric.