Remember the First Ladies: Legacies of America’s History-Making Women

Remember the First Ladies:

Legacies of America’s History-Making Women

The Middleburg Community Center was filled for a chat and book signing of "Remember the First Ladies: The Legacies of America’s History-Making Women" with author Anita B. McBride, who was introduced by former Senator Roy Blunt of Missouri.

McBride, former chief of staff for Laura Bush, wrote the book with Diana B. Carlin and Nancy Kegan Smith. It tells of the evolutionary role of the first lady and its historic importance on the American presidency.

The book shines a light on the influential women who broke barriers and made a mark on the country and, at times, the world, during their time in the White House. The discussion was led by Mary Beth Morell of Middleburg Books.

“We were delighted to host Anita in Middleburg as she discussed her book, Remember the First Ladies,” said Melanie Blunt, who organized the event and served as first lady of Missouri 20052009. “America’s first ladies are really our country’s unsung heroes. First spouses are not paid by our government—they are full time volunteers who support their spouses, champion important causes, and lead and represent the American people through times of celebration and crisis. Anita and her co-authors have masterfully weaved their stories into this book.”

Biographical and thematic chapters are included and the book documents the impact of first ladies on topics such as civil rights, political campaigns, major speeches, and the White House across the span of the nation’s history.

Profiles of the first ladies relate their histories, achievements, and legacies. There’s also a chapter about Bunny Mellon’s Rose Garden. McBride had a private tour at the Oak Spring Garden Foundation in Upperville. A signed copy of this book will be in the permanent collection of the horticulture library at Oak Spring.

Ambassador Tom Anderson and his wife Katherine hosted Ms. McBride at their home, Waterford, near Middleburg for a dinner and overnight stay. It’s safe to say memories from Washington were a topic of conversation.

Readers will learn about the development and expansion of the role of first lady, from its origins under Martha Washington through its current iteration under Dr. Jill Biden. The book explores how first ladies have been uniquely positioned to influence American society, policy, diplomacy, and life in the White House.

And finally, ho, ho, ho. Did we mention a children’s book? First Ladies Make History? Call I-800-Santa. This takes young readers on a journey with first ladies to discover their important contributions.