Priscilla Cooper Tyler

This photograph is of a drawing of Priscilla Cooper Tyler. Priscilla Cooper Tyler was an actress in New York City, but gave up her stage career to marry wealthy Southerner, Robert Tyler. In 1841, the sudden death of President William Henry Harrison led to the ascendency of her father-in-law, Vice President John Tyler, to the presidency. She and her husband moved into the White House to assist with the management of the Executive Mansion. First Lady Letitia Tyler was unable to act as White House hostess due to a myriad of health conditions, so Priscilla stepped into the role. She served as an enthusiastic and sociable surrogate first lady from 1842 until moving to Philadelphia with her husband in 1844.