Abigail Smith Adams (1744 -1818) - An Influential First Lady

Written By: Tim George  |  Posted: Wednesday, August 17th, 2011

            Born into a Congregational minister's home, Abigail Smith had much in common with most young women of her day. Though she would later be known as an advocate for the public education of girls, she herself never received any formal education. Even so, her education was far from common. With the extensive libraries of both her father and grandfather, Abigail was well read in philosophy, theology, Shakespeare, the classics, ancient history, government, and law.

            Abigail Smith became Abigail Adams not long after her 19th birthday, and together she and John Adams welcomed their first child into the world a few days short of nine months later. A mother before 20, Abigail managed the household finances and farm along with her husband while he also practiced law in Boston.

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