Early Life and Family Background
Julia Gardiner Tyler Wilson, born in 1881, was strongly influenced by her grandparents, John Tyler, the 10th President of the United States, and Julia Tyler. Anne Tucker was her mother and Lyon Gardiner Tyler was the son of President John Tyler and Julia Gardiner. Julia Wilson came from a political and educational family.
After William Henry Harrison died, her paternal grandfather, John Tyler, was president from 1841 to 1845. Julia Gardiner Tyler was First Lady of the United States from June 26, 1844, to March 4, 1845, after marrying John Tyler. She was born on Gardiner’s Island, New York, on May 4, 1820, into a wealthy and prominent family.
Julia Gardiner Tyler was a popular presidential spouse like other notable First Ladies. After marrying widower President Tyler, she became First Lady. First sitting president to marry while in office, their wedding gained public attention and controversy.
Marriage and Family
Julia Gardiner Tyler married 54-year-old John Tyler on June 26, 1844. At 21, she was the youngest First Lady in American history. They had seven kids:
- David Gardiner Tyler (born 1846)
- John Alexander Tyler (born 1848)
- Julia Gardiner Tyler (born 1849)
- Lachlan Tyler (born 1851)
- Lyon Gardiner Tyler (born 1853)
- Robert Fitzwalter Tyler (born 1856)
- Pearl Tyler (born 1860)
The Tylers went to Charles City County, Virginia’s Sherwood Forest plantation after leaving the White House. After John Tyler’s presidency, they moved to Sherwood Forest, which commemorates their life.
The Tylers were active in education and government. Lyon Gardiner Tyler, Julia Wilson’s father, was president of the College of William & Mary, furthering the family’s educational tradition.
Julia Tyler Wilson: Legacy and Contributions
Julia Gardiner Tyler Wilson was noted for her leadership and art. She founded Kappa Delta Sorority, which supports collegiate women via friendship. Her foundership demonstrated her leadership and dedication to women’s empowerment.
After developing the sorority’s insignia and creating numerous early works, Julia Wilson was honored. Her talents went beyond sorority work, making her an accomplished woman.
Julia Gardiner Tyler Wilson continued her family’s public service, education, and social influence. She died in 1965, leaving a lengthy history with one of America’s oldest presidential families.
FAQ
John Tyler and Julia Gardiner Tyler had how many children?
John Tyler and Julia Gardiner Tyler had seven children: David (1846), John (1848), Julia (1849), Lachlan (1851), Lyon (1853), Robert (1856), and Pearl (1860).
Who was John Tyler’s First Lady?
While president, John Tyler married Julia Gardiner Tyler, his first wife.
Who married Julia Gardiner Tyler Wilson?
Julia Gardiner Tyler Wilson is well known for her Kappa Delta Sorority work and her lineage as President John Tyler’s granddaughter. She never married.
John Tyler married Julia Gardiner at what age?
John Tyler married Julia Gardiner on June 26, 1844, at 54.
What is Sherwood Forest?
After leaving the White House, John and Julia Gardiner Tyler settled at Sherwood Forest in Charles City County, Virginia.
What is Julia Gardiner Tyler’s sorority history?
Julia Gardiner Tyler Wilson, granddaughter of President John Tyler, founded Kappa Delta Sorority and designed its badge, showcasing her leadership and artistic skills.
