First Lady of Style: Sarah Childress Polk

Sarah Polk is considered by many historians to be one of the most influential of the 19th century First Ladies. In a time when the position of first lady had no official capacity, Sarah Polk wielded a power seldom enjoyed by women of her age. Having no children of her own, he immersed herself in her husband’s long political career and became his closest advisor. Some historians, including today’s guest have written that Sarah Polk defined the role of First Lady. Her husband, James K. Polk was the youngest President up to the time, and the youngest to die outside those who have been assassinated. Sarah outlived her husband by 42 years, making her the longest widowed first lady in American History. Join host Tom Price as he continues his series on Tennessee’s first ladies with special guest, Dr. Amy Greenberg, author of Lady First: The World of First Lady Sarah Polk.

What is Front Porch Radio - History's Hook?

History’s Hook is a weekly audio-media series that uses local stories…stories found in everyone’s backyard…to explore national and world history. The show features experts and eye-witnesses to events that make those connections in history. The show’s host, Tom Price is a veteran historian who has spent nearly 30 years working in museums and archives finding those documents and objects that tell the stories of all of us. He has published numerous articles on U.S. History and has curated fifteen major exhibitions related to American History and culture.