Paul Jennings (4) (1799–1874)

If you are a history buff, this is worth reading. Dolley Madison is often credited with saving the portrait of George Washington with the British burned the Capitol during the War of 1812. However, this book refutes that and says it was actually the Negro servants who saved most of the items. Dolley Madison is a favorite first lady, but like most, has her flaws. I enjoyed reading this new perspective on that time and place and the thoughts of the negro servants who did so much for our show more country during this war. show less

So I read this after reading the Wikipedia article about Montpelier in preparation for a visit this week. A very short but interesting account from the slave that waited on Madison during his presidency until his death. He wrote this as a freeman by working off his freedom from Daniel Webster. Fascinating short account.