Religion: Episcopalian Education: Graduated from Bowdoin College (1824) Occupation: Lawyer, public official Political Party: Democrat Other Government Positions:
From the Miller Center of Public Affairs at the University of Virginia, in addition to information on the Presidents themselves, they have first lady and cabinet member biographies, listings of presidential staff and advisers, and timelines detailing significant events in the lives of each administration.
The historic home of Franklin Pierce located in Concord, New Hampshire. Tourist information and historical context can be found at this web site.
Points of Interest:
Hillsboro, Hillsborough, New Hampshire
Old North Cemetery
North State Street, Concord, New Hampshire
301 2nd New Hampshire Turnpike, Hillsborough, New Hampshire
14 Horseshoe Pond Ln, Concord, NH 03301
Additional Facts:
Pierce was arrested while in office for running over an old woman with his horse, but his case was dropped due to insufficient evidence in 1853.
He defeated his old commanding officer from the Mexican War, Winfield Scott, when he was elected president.
Pierce was wounded during the Mexican War.
One of the Democratic party's slogans during Pierce's campaign for president was: "We Polked you in 1844; we shall Pierce you in 1852."
Benjamin, Pierce's third and only surviving child, died in a railroad accident two months before his father's inauguration.
Because of religious considerations Pierce affirmed rather than swore the Presidential oath of office.
Pierce gave his 3,319-word inaugural address from memory, without the aid of notes.
Pierce was the only President to have no turnover in his cabinet.
Pierce was the only elected President who sought but did not win his party's nomination for a second term.
During his second year at Bowdoin College in Maine, Pierce had the lowest grades out of anyone in his class. He changed his study habits, and graduated third in his class. Among his class mates were Nathaniel Hawthorne and Henry Wadsworth Longfellow.
Franklin Pierce was the first President to have a Christmas tree in the White House.
He installed the first central-heating system and the first bathroom with hot and cold water in the White House.
Pierce was an avid fisherman.
Pierce died of cirrhosis of the liver as a result of years of heavy drinking.
Quotes:
“While men inhabiting different parts of this vast continent cannot be expected to hold the same opinions, they can unite in a common objective and sustain common principles.”
“Frequently the more trifling the subject, the more animated and protracted the discussion.”
Pres. Pierce Lost 11-Year-Old Son In Train Crash - a Presidential Story Ep. 54