(15) Harriet Lane

Harriet Rebecca Lane Johnston

Websites 

First Ladies National Library Biography of Harriet Lane

White House History Biography: Harriet Lane

Papers/letters collections

James Buchanan and Harriet Lane Johnston Papers

Manuscripts for: Harriet Lane

Historical sites

Gravesite: Harriet Rebecca Lane Johnston

Harriet Lane Clinic

Fascinating details

• James Buchanan was her maternal uncle and was known for being a lifelong bachelor. 
• Had full responsibility over all White House decorations and social events.
• The first woman family member to be named “first lady of the land” in public print.
• Some sources claim Harriet to be a transitional figure in the role of ‘first lady’ as she had a more substantial role in political and social functions including promoting American art, experimenting with campaigning, and influencing the president.