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Introduction

Written just days after John Adams’s inauguration as president, this letter finds Abigail Adams reflecting on the weight of national leadership now resting upon her husband. It replies to John’s recent correspondence and conveys both pride in his elevation and concern for the burdens that accompanied the office.

Letter Text

I pray Heaven to bestow the best of blessings on this house and all that shall hereafter inhabit it. May none but honest and wise men ever rule under this roof. You enter upon a scene of cares and responsibilities such as few men have been called to sustain, and I trust that the same Providence which has guided you through former trials will continue to support and direct you.

The distinction to which you are called brings with it many anxieties, yet I feel a firm reliance that integrity and perseverance will enable you to discharge every duty with honor. For myself, I shall endeavor to bear my part with becoming dignity, sensible that the example of those in public stations has no small influence upon the manners and morals of the nation. May your administration be marked by wisdom, moderation, and a sincere regard for the happiness of the people.

HAL 1776 Commentary

This letter captures Abigail Adams at the threshold of a new chapter, as the private sacrifices of revolutionary life give way to the public responsibilities of national leadership. Her words blend personal devotion with a clear understanding of the symbolic power of the presidency. Within the correspondence, the letter underscores how the Adams partnership continued to shape public life even as the Revolution receded into history.

Source

Founders Online, National Archives.
Abigail Adams to John Adams, 21 March 1797.
https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Adams/04-09-02-0128