Alexander Hamilton became co-founder and then deputy director of the first private orphanage in New York City. In 1806, two years after her husband’s death, Mrs. She was devoted to Alexander’s writings, and she wore a small package around her neck containing the pieces of a sonnet which Alexander wrote for her during the early days of their courtship.

With my last idea I shall cherish the sweet hope of meeting you in a better world.Įlizabeth remained dedicated to preserving her husband’s legacy. “The consolations of Religion, my beloved, can alone support you įly to the bosom of your God and be comforted. Before the duel, he wrote Eliza two letters, telling her: In 1804, Alexander Hamilton became involved in an “affair of honor,” which led to his infamous duel with Aaron Burr and untimely death.

In 1780 Alexander Hamilton and Elizabeth met during the middle of the American Revolutionary War and married in the same year. Her family was among the wealthy Dutch landowners who had settled around Albany in the mid-1600s. In 1787, Elizabeth sat for this portrait while Ralph Earl was being held in debtors’ prison.Īlexander had heard of Earl’s predicament and asked if Elizabeth might be willing to sit for him, to allow him to make some money and eventually buy his way out of prison, which he later did.Įlizabeth Schuyler was born in Albany, New York, and her family came from a wealthy and politically influential family. Secretary of the Treasury and Founding Father. Alexander Hamilton” by Ralph Earl portrays Elizabeth Schuyler Hamilton (1757 – 1854), the wife of Alexander Hamilton, U.S.

Eliza schuyler hamilton