Ida Saxton McKinley

This watercolor on ivory portrait of First Lady Ida Saxton McKinley was done by Emily Drayton Taylor. Emily Taylor worked in miniatures and also authored a chapter in the book "Heirlooms and Miniatures," printed in 1898. Prior to her marriage, Mrs. McKinley worked as a teller in her father's bank. Despite difficulties with her health, Mrs. McKinley fulfilled the duties of first lady to the best of her ability, hosting White House events and traveling with the president. William McKinley was president from March 4, 1897 until his death on September 14, 1901.