Dolley Madison

Dolley Madison (1768–1849), the wife of President James Madison, is perhaps best known for saving Gilbert Stuart's portrait of George Washington before the British burned the White House in 1814. While many others fled the city, she bravely stayed until the last possible moment to secure important government documents and other items, including the famous portrait. Madison is also well known for her gracious charm as a White House hostess, often soothing tensions during times of political differences.

The Dolley Madison stamp was issued in 1980.