Mother Mary

[Eva Elisabeth]

On another thread David Lockmiller posted a "strawberry shortcake story" (thanks for sharing, David - nice, never read before!). Cake reminds me of birthday, and I just wonder - somewhere I read Mary, unusual in those days, gave birthday parties for the kids. (Once more the Lincolns were ahead of their times.) It might have been in Jean Baker's bio, I'll check later. However, no further details were given (or I don't remember...). I didn't check the (foot)notes when I read it though as this question didn't come to my mind then. Does anyone know more on 1. what she did, what was probably going on on 19 th century kids' birthday parties*, and/or 2. what source there is for this? (* speculations also much appreciated)

Thanks for any comments!