Frances Folsom Cleveland Preston was born on July 21, 1864, in Buffalo, New York. She was the daughter of Oscar Folsom, a close friend of Grover Cleveland. Frances attended Wells College in Aurora, New York, where she studied literature and languages.
Frances caught the eye of Grover Cleveland at a young age, as he had known her since she was born. They eventually fell in love, and on June 2, 1886, Frances became the youngest First Lady in history when she married Grover Cleveland. Their union was not without controversy, as there was a 27-year age gap between them.
Frances took on the role of First Lady during her husband's non-consecutive terms as President of the United States. She served from 1886 to 1889 and then again from 1893 to 1897. Known for her grace and charm, Frances was a popular First Lady who brought a sense of youth and vitality to the White House.
Frances and Grover Cleveland had five children together: Ruth, Esther, Marion, Richard, and Francis. Tragically, Grover Cleveland passed away in 1908, leaving Frances a widow. She later remarried Thomas J. Preston, Jr., an archaeology professor, becoming the first presidential widow to remarry.
Frances' legacy lives on through her alma mater, Wells College, which constructed Cleveland Hall in her honor in 1911. She was a trailblazer in her own right, breaking stereotypes and paving the way for future First Ladies to come.
Frances Folsom Cleveland Preston will always be remembered as a woman of grace, intelligence, and poise. Her impact on the role of the First Lady and American society as a whole is immeasurable. She will forever hold a special place in the hearts of the American people.