Mary Clay Smith Breckinridge, born August 31, 1787, in Princeton, New Jersey, was an important early American. She was the daughter of Dr. Samuel Stanhope Smith, a prominent Princeton College president. They had noteworthy progeny in American politics and culture after Mary Clay married Joseph Cabell Breckinridge.
Early Life and Education
Mary Clay was born into academically prestigious families. Her father was an esteemed educator, and her ancestors were famous.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Birth Date | August 31, 1787 |
| Birthplace | Princeton, New Jersey |
| Father | Dr. Samuel Stanhope Smith |
| Mother’s Name | Anne Smith |
| Education | Influenced by her father’s academic environment |
Marriage and Family
On May 11, 1811, Mary Clay married Joseph Cabell Breckinridge. The couple had several children, including John C. Breckinridge, the 14th US Vice President.
| Family Member | Relationship |
|---|---|
| Joseph Cabell Breckinridge | Husband |
| John C. Breckinridge | Son, Vice President of the United States |
| Frances Ann Breckinridge | Daughter |
| Caroline Laurens Breckinridge | Daughter |
| John Witherspoon Breckinridge | Grandson |
Legacy and Accomplishments
Mary Clay Smith Breckinridge shaped her children’s lives and futures beyond her family duties. After her daughter Mary Cabell Breckinridge Satterwhite died, she raised her grandkids for years.
| Accomplishment | Description |
|---|---|
| Care for Grandchildren | Cared for Satterwhite children for a decade |
| Support for Political Careers | Encouraged her son’s political ambitions |
| Community Involvement | Engaged in local community activities |
Notable Descendants
Mary Clay’s children shaped American politics and society. John C. Breckinridge is remembered for his role in a turbulent time in American history.
| Descendant | Notable Accomplishments |
|---|---|
| John C. Breckinridge | 14th Vice President; Confederate General |
| Mary Cabell Breckinridge | Influential social figure |
| Clifton R. Breckinridge | Continued family prominence |
Family Connections
Marriage and lineage linked Mary Clay Smith Breckinridge to other significant families and American figures.
| Family Relation | Connection |
|---|---|
| John Witherspoon | Grandfather, signer of the Declaration of Independence |
| Joseph Cabell Breckinridge | Father-in-law, influential politician |
| Rev. John Witherspoon | Influential clergyman and educator |
Later Years and Death
Mary Clay Smith Breckinridge died in Baltimore on October 9, 1864. Her life reflected the struggles and successes of women in her day, especially in family and society.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Death Date | October 9, 1864 |
| Place of Death | Baltimore, Maryland |
| Age at Death | 77 years old |
FAQ
What was Mary Clay Smith Breckinridge’s family role?
Mary Clay Smith Breckinridge was a matriarch who raised her children and influenced her grandchildren’s lives.
Who were Mary Clay’s notable children?
Her most famous child was Vice President and Civil War Confederate General John C. Breckinridge.
How did she help her community?
Mary Clay was active in the community and supported her children’s ambitions, shaping their social positions.
Which historical figures are related to Mary Clay Smith Breckinridge?
She is the granddaughter of noted political figure Rev. John Witherspoon, a signer of the Declaration of Independence, and married into the Breckinridge family.
The significance of her marriage to Joseph Cabell Breckinridge?
Their marriage connected Mary Clay to a politically engaged Kentucky family, establishing a political bloodline that would influence American politics.
