Mary Todd Lincoln by Jean Baker

[Amy L.]

Was that money used to pay back the debt that Mary Lincoln racked up? Or was Mrs. Lincoln exonerated after her husband's death from the outrageous expenses spent on the White House?

Whatever the case, the money wasn't enough to keep Mrs. Lincoln comfortable through her life, as she haggled with the Federal Gov't over money given to widowed spouses. (Which for sure she was right to do, and a good effort on behalf of future First Ladies. (We gonna have a First Man in 2021?? I'm kinda excited.))