Mary Abigail Fillmore

Mary Abigail Fillmore was born on March 27, 1832, in Buffalo, New York. She was the only daughter and the youngest child of Millard Fillmore, who later became the 13th President of the United States, and his wife Abigail Powers.

She received her education at a private school located in Lenox, Massachusetts. She was proficient in multiple languages, speaking French fluently and being conversant in Spanish, German, and Italian.

Before her father's presidency, she briefly taught at schools in Buffalo. Following her father’s accession to the presidency in 1850, she assumed the role of White House hostess, partially due to her mother’s illness. During her period as hostess, she occasionally performed at White House functions, showcasing her musical talents, which included playing the piano, harp, and guitar.

After President Millard Fillmore's term concluded in 1853, Abigail Fillmore died 26 days later, on July 26, 1854. Following her mother’s death, Mary took on the responsibility of managing her father’s household. She also accompanied him to various public events, including the Grand Excursion of June 1854, which involved a train and steamboat voyage that garnered significant publicity at the time.

Mary Abigail Fillmore's life was brief; she died at the age of 22 from cholera. Her death occurred shortly after her father left the presidency, and her passing is believed to have influenced Millard Fillmore’s decision to re-enter public service by resuming his political career.