Chester Alan Arthur | ||
In His novel Empire, Gore Vidal calls Chester Alan Arthur "that most elegant of all presidents." During his presidency he was known as "Elegant Arthur," "The Gentleman boss," and the "Dude President." These nicknames reflect Arthur's reputation for a stylish appearance, his penchant for lavish entertaining, and his redecoration of the White House with Louis Comfort Tiffany. Not Often remembered for his modest political achievements, his greatest significance may lie instead in the mark of elegance and taste that he made on the presidency. His qualities as a gentleman of sophistication and style were legend in his day and have continued to set him apart from his fellow presidents ever since. There appears to be a complete agreement - among detractors and admirers alike - that in every respect, Arthur embodied a highly noteworthy and urbane elegance. From his early days at the Schenectady Lyceum and Union College, to his time in New York State government and his ascendance to the White House, Chester Arthur built a reputation for fashionable clothes and carriages, distinctive and tasteful surroundings, elaborate entertaining, and impeccable social skills. This exhibition looks at Chester Alan Arthur's life in the context of his reputation as America's most elegant president. | ||
| click images to enlarge | ||
 © LIBRARY OF CONGRESS - Portrait of Chester Alan Arthur  Women viewing the newly decorated White House by Louis Comfort Tiffany.  © LIBRARY OF CONGRESS - Stereograph of the Blue Room of the White House decorated by Louis Comfort Tiffany  Family Photograph Album in Special Collections at Union College | ||
