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Frances Cleveland’s Historic White House Wedding at Just 21

A 21-year-old bride in the White House Blue Room? Frances Cleveland defied norms, leaving a legacy in fashion, charity, and presidential history.

This picture shows a woman standing and speaking with the help of a microphone and we see two Flags...
This picture shows a woman standing and speaking with the help of a microphone and we see two Flags on the podium.

Frances Cleveland’s Historic White House Wedding at Just 21

Frances Folsom Cleveland made history as the youngest first lady in American politics. At just 21 years old, she married President Grover Cleveland in the White House—the only woman to wed a sitting president there. Her time in the public eye left a lasting mark on fashion, social causes, and even presidential family life.

Born in 1864, Frances Folsom became first lady in 1886 after marrying Grover Cleveland, who was 27 years her senior. Their wedding took place in the White House Blue Room, making her the only first lady to marry a president while he was in office.

Frances Cleveland’s legacy spans fashion, social reform, and presidential firsts. She remains the only first lady to marry and give birth in the White House. Her work with education and children’s charities also left a tangible impact beyond her years in public life.

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