The President’s Lady 1953

Andrew meets Rachel at the Donelson farm

In 1789, a young Andrew Jackson seeks room and board at Mrs. Donelson's farm near Nashville. He impresses the family with his competence, especially his experience fighting Indians. He becomes immediately infatuated with Rachel Donelson, setting the stage for a tumultuous romance.

Lewis confronts Rachel; Andrew intervenes

Rachel's jealous husband, Lewis Robards, travels to demand she return home. Tensions flare and Andrew disarms Lewis when he pulls a gun; the couple escapes with Mrs. Donelson's help. They skirt danger, including a later Indian encounter, as they flee toward safety.

Natchez plan and annulment dilemma

In Natchez, Andrew tells Rachel that an annulment could allow a future marriage, but it would not be legally recognized in the United States. Rachel refuses to derail Andrew's career and asks him to return to Nashville to obtain a divorce for her. The couple weighs the legal and social costs of their future together.

The news of divorce; marriage restored

John writes that Lewis has obtained a divorce, accusing Rachel of adultery. Crushed by the accusation, Rachel nonetheless agrees to marry Andrew again, and the couple weds in Nashville. They return to build a life together amid renewed hope.

Two years of domestic happiness

The couple enjoys two years of happiness in Nashville, settling into domestic life. Rachel longs for children, but the couple's happiness is tempered by ongoing rumors and social scrutiny. Their bond endures despite the gossip.

Jason's insult and a deadly warning

In town, Jason, Lewis's cousin, makes a crude remark about Rachel. Andrew nearly beats him to death in a protective fury, but the violence is quelled. On the drive home they learn Rachel's brother has been killed by Indians, a new blow to their life together.

Indians, militia, and Lincoya's arrival

Andrew raises a militia to face Indian threats, leaving Rachel and her slave Moll to tend the fields for over a year and a half. When Andrew returns, they care for an orphaned Indian infant they name Lincoya, symbolizing a fragile family bond. He soon builds a fine new home for Rachel, which becomes The Hermitage.

The Hermitage and social humiliation

Eight years pass as Andrew pursues public life and military duties while Rachel endures social slights. A ladies' club invitation exposes lingering gossip about her past, leaving her humiliated and isolated at home. The loss of Lincoya has already deepened their vulnerabilities.

Duels, honor, and Dickinson's death

A large horse race victory raises Andrew's profile as he is named general of the state militia. Charles Dickinson provocatively taunts him over the earlier rumors, and the duel ends with Dickinson slain and Andrew wounded. The incident underlines the perilous costs of public life.

War and long captivity; homeward return

The War of 1812 interrupts their peace as Andrew goes off to fight for two years. Rachel runs the household and fields in his absence, maintaining their life at The Hermitage until he returns a war hero. The separation tests their resolve but strengthens their bond.

Presidential run and ailing wife

In 1825, Andrew agrees to run for president amid mounting opposition. Rachel, frail and anxious, sneaks out to hear him speak, enduring jeers from a crowd that calls her unfit for the role. Her health worsens as the campaign consumes her remaining strength.