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Martha Washington's Hidden Grief: Daughter's Epilepsy Revealed
28 Oct
Summary
- Letter details Martha Washington's concern for her daughter Patsy's seizures.
- The Library of Congress acquired this rare, handwritten Martha Washington letter.
- Patsy Washington died at 17 from complications of epilepsy.
A recently acquired letter from Martha Washington provides a poignant look into a private tragedy concerning her daughter, Patsy. Written in September 1760, the missive to a friend expresses Martha's hope for her then 4-year-old daughter's improving health, referencing "fitts" and fevers. Historians believe Patsy suffered from epilepsy, a condition that would plague her and ultimately lead to her death at age 17.
The Library of Congress announced its acquisition of this unique, handwritten letter, which sheds light on the struggles of the Washington family during George Washington's rise to prominence. The letter was purchased for $47,500 and is the only known document in Martha Washington's hand held by the library. Patsy, daughter of Martha's previous marriage, was cherished by George Washington, who acted as a devoted stepfather.
Despite various remedies attempted by the family, including folk remedies and medical treatments of the era, Patsy's seizures persisted and worsened over time. Records from 1770 indicate frequent occurrences of her "fits." Tragically, in June 1773, Patsy died suddenly from a severe seizure at Mount Vernon, a devastating loss for her mother and stepfather, as recorded by George Washington himself.
