“A Birthday Tribute to Grace Goodhue Coolidge”

A Birthday Tribute to Grace Goodhue Coolidge

Dr. Fran Becque, leading fan of Mrs. Coolidge and fraternity historian, has offered a fine tribute to one of the most gracious and beloved First Ladies (or the “National Hugger,” as she once laughingly called herself) ever to occupy the White House. Today marks the 134th Anniversary of her birth in Burlington, Vermont, to Andrew and Lemira Goodhue. Even to those of us who know her only from a distance in time and place, we love and miss her greatly. Happy Birthday, Mrs. Coolidge!

Mrs. Coolidge, 1942

Mrs. Grace Coolidge, 1942

Happy Birthday, President Coolidge!

It is fitting that today we honor the only President who shares his birthday with that of our Nation. When he was born America was not yet one hundred years old, now she is two hundred and thirty-seven. It was during his lifetime that America first stepped into our modern world. Coolidge understood that simple principles, as are embodied in our Declaration, gave birth to greatness not the other way around. Moral power comes first. His quiet competence, his unshakable integrity, his wry sense of perspective, and his confidence in the American people continue to refresh and inspire many even now because no social or technological advancement can surpass them. These moral principles are incapable of obsolescence. His administration exemplified the timeless success of this truth. America is richer for the wealth of his example. For these reasons we honor him today. Happy Birthday, Mr. Coolidge!

CoolidgeCake