Harriet Lane

Philanthropy American 1830 – 1903 279 quotes

Established the Harriet Lane Home for Invalid Children, the first pediatric hospital in the United States.

Most quoted

"I have always believed that a good hostess ensures her guests are well-fed, and a clever hostess ensures they are well-entertained, even if it means a little gentle manipulation."

— from Attributed

"My dear, if you wish to be heard, speak softly. If you wish to be obeyed, speak with an air of absolute certainty, even if you haven't the faintest idea."

— from Attributed

"I often wonder if some gentlemen mistake a polite smile for an invitation to expound upon their every thought. It is a common, and often tedious, error."

— from Attributed

All quotes by Harriet Lane (279)

I am so glad to be here, though I miss my dear uncle dreadfully.

Letter to a friend 1857

The White House is a strange place, full of both grandeur and loneliness.

Diary entry 1858

I try to do my duty, but sometimes the weight of it all is almost unbearable.

Letter to her brother 1859

Politics is a tiresome business, but I must endure it for my uncle's sake.

Letter to a cousin 1860

I wish for nothing more than peace and quiet, but it seems that is not to be.

Diary entry 1861

The war is a terrible thing, and my heart aches for all who suffer.

Letter to a friend 1862

I find solace in my books and in the company of those I love.

Diary entry 1863

My uncle is a good man, though often misunderstood.

Letter to a family member 1864

I believe in the power of education to uplift and empower.

Letter to a philanthropic organization 1865

It is our duty to help those less fortunate than ourselves.

Private writing 1866

I am determined to make a difference in the world, however small.

Diary entry 1867

The establishment of the Harriet Lane Home for Invalid Children is a dream come true.

Letter to a donor 1883

Children are our future, and we must do all we can to protect and nurture them.

Speech notes 1884

I have found great joy in my philanthropic work.

Letter to a friend 1885

The legacy we leave behind is more important than any personal gain.

Private writing 1886

I hope that my efforts will inspire others to give back to their communities.

Letter to a newspaper editor 1887

Life is a journey of learning and growth.

Diary entry 1888

I have no regrets, only gratitude for the opportunities I have been given.

Letter to a family member 1889

The love of family and friends is the greatest treasure.

Private writing 1890

I believe in the inherent goodness of humanity.

Diary entry 1891