Born: 1 October 1832, United States
Died: 25 October 1892
Country most active: United States
Also known as: Caroline Lavinia Scott
Music teacher, Civil War activist and U.S. First Lady Caroline Lavinia Harrison was married to President Benjamin Harrison, and was the second first lady to die while in that role.
Born Caroline Lavinia Scott, she was the well-educated daughter of a college professor and enjoyed art, music and literature, teaching music while her husband pursued his career in law and politics. A community activist, she worked with her church, volunteered for charity work and managed local institutions, including an orphanage and a women’s club, and contributed to the war effort during the U.S. Civil War through women’s groups. Her role as political hostess came to the fore as her husband campaigned for presidency in 1888, but she had little interest in the hostess role of first lady and preferred to focus her time and efforts on charity work. She supported women’s rights and co-founded the Daughters of the American Revolution, serving as its first President General.
Harrison undertook a major renovation of the White House, having it wired for electricity and having much of the interior and utilities entirely overhauled. Her plans later influenced the construction of the East and West Wings, and she also inventoried the furnishings and other items in the White House, kickstarting its historical preservation practices.