2026-02-16
Michelle Gullion Reexamines the Legacy of Ida McKinley in National Essay Series Elevating America’s Founding Stories
Today we’re celebrating the launch of IN PURSUIT, featured in a terrific article in the The New York Times!
This exciting new series brings fresh, thoughtful essays on early American leaders including reflections on George Washington and Martha Washington now available on Substack and the newly designed IN PURSUIT website.
We’re especially proud that this project connects directly to the mission of the National First Ladies Library & Museum.
Our own Michelle Gullion, Senior Director of Curatorial Services, contributed an essay highlighting the powerful and often misunderstood story of Ida Saxton McKinley.
After the heartbreaking loss of her daughters and living with epilepsy, Ida’s life was forever changed. Yet she remained steadfast in supporting William McKinley and fulfilling her White House duties at a time when people with disabilities were often shunned by society.
She was witty, compassionate, outspoken, fiercely loyal, and incredibly brave. A devoted partner in what was truly a power couple, Ida refused to be defined by labels though history too often remembered her simply as “an invalid.”
Projects like IN PURSUIT allow us to reclaim and reexamine these stories ensuring the women of history are seen in their full strength, complexity, and humanity.
Be sure to read the essays, tune in to the conversations airing today, and join us in celebrating this meaningful launch.