[Daveinyork]

I agree. I think it was Dolly Madison who created the role of the first lady.

[jmacusa]

During receptions and receiving ladies to The White House President Madison would often ask her to play host as Dolley was well known for her social graces.

Dolley also presided over the first inaugural ball when her husband was elected establishing a precedent with every new administration since and she frequently served ice cream at White House dinners.