38 Facts About Alice Roosevelt Longworth

Alice Roosevelt Longworth: A Remarkable Life

Alice Roosevelt Longworth, daughter of President Theodore Roosevelt, was a woman who lived life on her own terms. Known for her wit, charm, and rebellious nature, she left an indelible mark on American history. Here are some fascinating facts about this extraordinary woman.

Early Life and Family

Alice's early years were shaped by her family and the era she was born into. Let's delve into some key aspects of her upbringing.

1. Born on February 12, 1884, in New York City, Alice was the eldest child of Theodore Roosevelt and his first wife, Alice Hathaway Lee Roosevelt.
2. Tragically, her mother died just two days after her birth, leading her father to nickname her "Baby Lee" to avoid saying her mother's name.
3. Raised by her aunt Anna "Bamie" Roosevelt for the first few years, Alice had a close bond with her father's family.
4. Her father remarried Edith Kermit Carow in 1886, and Alice gained five half-siblings: Theodore III, Kermit, Ethel, Archibald, and Quentin.

A Rebellious Teenager

Alice's teenage years were marked by her defiance of societal norms and her father's expectations.

5. Known for her rebellious streak, Alice once climbed onto the White House roof to escape a boring party.
6. She smoked cigarettes in public, a scandalous act for women at the time.
7. Alice kept a pet snake named Emily Spinach, which she often carried in her purse to shock people.
8. She was expelled from Miss Spence's School for disobedience, leading her father to send her to a boarding school in Connecticut.

Life in the White House

Alice's time in the White House during her father's presidency was anything but ordinary.

9. She became a fashion icon, often photographed in elegant gowns and hats.
10. Alice's debutante ball in 1902 was one of the most talked-about events of the season, attended by over a thousand guests.
11. She was known for her sharp wit, once quipping, "If you can't say something good about someone, sit right here by me."
12. Alice traveled extensively, representing her father on a diplomatic trip to Asia in 1905.

Marriage and Personal Life

Alice's marriage and personal life were as colorful as her early years.

13. In 1906, she married Nicholas Longworth, a Republican Congressman from Ohio, in a lavish White House wedding.
14. The couple had one daughter, Paulina, born in 1925.
15. Alice's marriage was tumultuous, with both partners engaging in extramarital affairs.
16. Despite their rocky relationship, Alice and Nicholas remained married until his death in 1931.

Political Influence

Alice wielded significant political influence throughout her life, often using her connections and sharp tongue to sway opinions.

17. She was a staunch supporter of her father's progressive policies and later became a critic of Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal.
18. Alice hosted a salon in her Washington, D.C. home, where politicians, journalists, and socialites gathered to discuss current events.
19. She was known for her cutting remarks, once saying of President Warren G. Harding, "Harding was not a bad man. He was just a slob."
20. Alice remained active in politics well into her later years, advising and critiquing presidents from her unique vantage point.

Later Years and Legacy

Alice's later years were marked by continued influence and a lasting legacy.

21. She published her autobiography, "Crowded Hours," in 1933, offering a candid look at her life and times.
22. Alice became known as the "other Washington Monument" due to her enduring presence in the capital.
23. She was a vocal critic of Senator Joseph McCarthy during the Red Scare, calling his tactics "a form of political pornography."
24. Alice's sharp wit remained intact until her death, with her final words reportedly being, "If you can't say something good about someone, sit right here by me."

Fun and Quirky Facts

Alice's life was filled with quirky and fun moments that showcased her unique personality.

25. She once buried a voodoo doll of President William Howard Taft in the White House garden.
26. Alice had a pillow embroidered with the words, "If you can't say something good about someone, sit right here by me."
27. She was known for her love of practical jokes, once placing a tack on the chair of a visiting dignitary.
28. Alice was an avid reader, with a personal library of over 10,000 books.

Impact on American Culture

Alice's impact on American culture extended beyond her lifetime, influencing fashion, politics, and social norms.

29. She popularized the color "Alice Blue," a light blue shade that became a fashion trend in the early 20th century.
30. Alice's outspoken nature inspired many women to challenge societal expectations and speak their minds.
31. She was a muse for several writers, including F. Scott Fitzgerald, who based a character in "The Beautiful and Damned" on her.
32. Alice's life story has been the subject of numerous biographies, documentaries, and even a Broadway play.

Final Years and Death

Alice's final years were spent in Washington, D.C., where she continued to be a prominent social figure.

33. She lived in the same house on Massachusetts Avenue for over 70 years.
34. Alice remained active in social circles, often hosting dinner parties and gatherings.
35. She was a frequent guest on radio and television programs, sharing her insights and stories.
36. Alice passed away on February 20, 1980, at the age of 96.

Lasting Legacy

Alice Roosevelt Longworth's legacy endures through her contributions to American society and her indomitable spirit.

37. She is remembered as one of the most influential women of her time, breaking barriers and challenging norms.
38. Alice's wit, charm, and rebellious nature continue to inspire generations of women to live life on their own terms.

Alice Roosevelt Longworth: A Lasting Legacy

Alice Roosevelt Longworth left an indelible mark on American history. Known for her sharp wit, bold personality, and influential social presence, she was more than just Theodore Roosevelt's daughter. Her life spanned significant historical events, from the turn of the 20th century through the civil rights movement. Alice's outspoken nature and political savvy made her a force to be reckoned with in Washington, D.C. Her famous quip, "If you can't say something good about someone, sit right here by me," encapsulates her spirit. She hosted salons that shaped political discourse and maintained friendships with key figures like Presidents Taft and Kennedy. Alice's legacy continues to inspire those who value independence, intelligence, and a bit of rebellious charm. Her story reminds us that one person's influence can ripple through history, leaving a lasting impact on generations to come.