Classroom Activities and Michigan's First Ladies

Abstract

In 1977, a poUtical science professor pointed out to First Lady Helen Milliken that there was no collective written record about Michigan's First Ladies. Milliken shared these remarks with Willah Weddon, and so began this project. The book is in its second edition and covers the first ladies from 1831 to the present. It also includes a section on Michigan's women Ueutenant governors and another on the governor's official family residences. The chronology of first ladies begins with Elizabeth S. Cass, wife of first territorial governor General Lewis Cass in 1831, and continues through the present first lady, MicheUe D. Engler. There is much in this book to pique your interest in history, particularly that which is seldom known. Weddon includes as much as she can about the early first ladies. Regrettably, there are few records of their contributions, so with some we are limited to their background, personaUty, and appearance. There are, however, many interesting and unknown facts that the author coUected in her extensive research. For instance, one first lady was not the governor's wife but his sister. Another governor had two wives during his administration. AU of Michigan's first ladies were accomplished in their own right and many were highly educated. AU contributed to the history of Michigan and the successes of their respective governors. This book serves as a fitting tribute to those women who served in the capacity of first lady. Weddon also catalogues the three women who served Michigan as Ueutenant governor, with tenures lasting from six weeks to eight years. Another interesting section is that on the official family residences of the governor and family. The author resists drawing conclusions but offers her findings in an objective yet sensitive manner. The paraUel structure used in the biographical sketches makes it easy for anyone interested in drawing comparisons to do so.