Description: (First Lady of the United States from 1845 to 1849)
Sarah Childress Polk served as the first lady of the United States from 1845 to 1849, during President James K. Polk's term. She supported her husband with her hosting abilities and offered him political advice. Although they did not have children, she cared for relatives and played a key role behind the scenes throughout his presidency. Following her husband's passing, she held the longest widowhood period of any first lady, maintaining her dignity and grace for 42 years.