In 1867, in order to raise some funds, she helped the First Lady auction off her clothing in New York, which later led to a scandal. Lincoln, at times neglecting her own business to be available for her. Mary often called Elizabeth to the White House for comfort when the stress of the Civil War and the loss of their son Willie overwhelmed her.Īfter President Lincoln was assassinated, Keckley was a loyal friend to Mrs. Her dignity and trustworthiness earned the confidence of Mary Lincoln and her husband. She became not only the First Lady’s dressmaker, but a confidante as well. Elizabeth’s business grew to include 20 assistants. Lincoln were praised in the newspapers for their beauty and elegance, even though many of them were created in a rush. One of her customers recommended Elizabeth to First Lady Mary Todd Lincoln. As word of her talent spread, she attracted more and more customers from Washington society. In 1860, Elizabeth and George moved to Washington, DC, where she opened a dressmaking shop. Elizabeth was 37 years old George was 16. The $1200 were raised, and at last my son and myself were free. Le Bourgois, God bless her dear good heart, was more than successful. I have $200 put away for a present am indebted to you $100 mother owes you $50, and will add another $50 to it and as I do not want the present, I will make the money a present to you.” Louis, and I am going to raise the $1200 required among them.

Le Bourgois, said, “You have many friends in St. More than all, I learned that he was an alcoholic, and a slave instead of a free man, as he represented himself to be.Įlizabeth’s dream of freedom was elusive, but one of her customers, Mrs. Keckley – let me speak kindly of his faults – proved dissipated, and a burden instead of a helpmate.

Elizabeth keckley thirty years a slave