Hot Famous Couples

Ike and Mamie Eisenhower enjoyed more than fifty years together. Although separated by two World Wars, they managed a good life. Dwight was born in Texas in 1890. Soon after, the family moved to Abilene, Kansas. Dwight and his five brothers grew up without much. Their father worked as a mechanic. After high school, Ike joined the military. This was the only way he could afford an education. He graduated West Point in 1915.

Dwight D. and Mamie Eisenhower in 1916

Mamie Doud was born on the other side of the tracks. Her father was a prosperous meat packer. He retired from business at the young age of 36. She and her three sisters were used to large homes and servants. The Douds also had a winter home in San Antonio.

Dwight and Mamie first met in 1915. They were introduced by the wife of a fellow officer. Dwight was the officer of the day and invited Mamie on his rounds with him. This was at Fort Sam Houston. A few months later, Dwight proposed marriage. It was Valentine’s Day 1916. In those days, it was common to give a miniature of your West Point class ring, to your intended. That is what he did.

On July 1, 1916, 19 year old Mamie Doud, became Mrs. Dwight D Eisenhower. It was a formal wedding at the Colorado home of her parents. They honeymooned at a fancy resort in Eldorado Springs, Colorado. They then visited his parents for two days. After that, they moved into their humble abode at Fort Sam Houston.

In 1917, their first son was born. They lost him to scarlet fever in 1921. In 1922, their second son, John, was born. For many years Mamie followed her husband from one assignment to the other. She stayed with him through the wars and troubles.

When Dwight became president of the United States, Mamie was by his side. She was always proud of him and believed in him. Dwight was always happy to have such a wonderful wife. Their love story endured form 1915 until his death in 1969.