Page "Thomas Jefferson" Paragraph 9

After practicing as a circuit lawyer for several years, Jefferson married the 23-year-old widow Martha Wayles Skelton on January 1, 1772.

Martha Jefferson was attractive, gracious and popular with her friends ; she was a frequent hostess for Jefferson and managed the large household.

They had a happy marriage.

She read widely, did fine needle work and was an amateur musician.

Jefferson played the violin and Martha was an accomplished piano player.

It is said that she was attracted to Thomas largely because of their mutual love of music.

During the ten years of their marriage, Martha bore six children: Martha, called Patsy, ( 1772 – 1836 ); Jane ( 1774 – 1775 ); an unnamed son ( 1777 ); Mary Wayles, called Polly, ( 1778 – 1804 ); Lucy Elizabeth ( 1780 – 1781 ); and Lucy Elizabeth ( 1782 – 1785 ).

Only Martha and Mary survived to adulthood.