Programs
New England Seminar in American History
Friday, March 2, 2001
Women of Influence:
Dolley Payne Madison and the Problem of Patronage
Catherine Allgor
Simmons College
Friday, April 6, 2001, at 4:30 p.m.
Clark University
Rare Book Room, Goddard Library
PRÉCIS: In the years between 1800 and 1832, the official men of Washington
had as their goal creating a government of "pure republicanism," which
eschewed court practices, power, and politicking in any form. In the face
of this anti-power ideology, the mothers, wives, and daughters of
political families used patronage, material display, networking and other
court techniques to create the structures sorely needed by the infant
republic and new capital city. A close look at the career of Dolley Payne
Todd Madison reveals that, rather than being exceptional, this petticoat
politicking was part of politics as usual in early Washington City.
Refreshments will be provided during the discussion of the paper. Those
who wish to may go out for a dutch treat dinner at a nearby restaurant
after the seminar. See map on reverse for directions to Clark University
and the locations of visitor parking and the seminar meeting room.
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