Born: September 2, 1918 (Pine Bluff, Arkansas)
Biography:
Martha Elizabeth Beall Mitchell was the wife of John N. Mitchell, the United States Attorney General under President Richard Nixon. Born on September 2, 1918, in Pine Bluff, Arkansas, Martha was the only child of cotton broker George V. Beall and drama teacher Arie Beall Ferguson. Growing up, Martha developed a close bond with the children of her African-American mammy due to the distance between their house and other families. As a child, she displayed a love for music and singing, often participating in the church choir. Her mother envisioned a future for Martha as an opera singer.
In 1937, Martha graduated from Pine Bluff High School and her yearbook quote reflected her passion for music, stating, I love its gentle warble, I love its gentle flow, I love to wind my tongue up, And I love to let it go. Despite struggling with dyslexia and difficulties in reading aloud, Martha had a deep appreciation for the arts and harbored dreams of becoming an actress. She began her higher education at Stephens College in Columbia, Missouri, studying acting under the renowned Maude Adams. However, her family’s objections led her to transfer to the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville, and later to the University of Miami.
During her time at the University of Miami, Martha dated Sonny Capone and had the chance to meet Al Capone himself. She also served as the president of Sigma Iota Chi and developed a passion for history, eventually earning a Bachelor of Arts degree. Martha briefly taught seventh grade in Mobile, Alabama, but quickly decided that teaching was not her calling. She returned to Pine Bluff in 1945 and began working as a secretary at the Pine Bluff Arsenal. Her skills led to her transfer, along with her boss Brigadier General Augustin Mitchell Prentiss, to Washington, D.C.
It was in Washington that Martha met Clyde Jennings Jr., a U.S. Army officer from Lynchburg, Virginia. The couple tied the knot on October 5, 1946, in Pine Bluff before settling in Rye, New York. However, Jennings soon left for his job as a traveling handbag salesman. During their marriage, Martha and Clyde had a son named Clyde Jay Jennings, who later became a GAO investigator. Unfortunately, the strain caused by Jennings’ frequent absences led to their separation in 1956 and divorce in 1957.
Shortly after her divorce, Martha had the chance to meet John N. Mitchell, and she was immediately struck by his suave demeanor and intellect. They married on December 30, 1957, and settled back in Rye, New York. Martha’s husband worked as a lawyer in Manhattan and enjoyed a successful career, earning $250,000 per year.
Martha Mitchell’s life took a significant turn when her husband became involved in the Watergate scandal. She emerged as a notable figure during this turbulent time, making frank and revealing comments in public, as well as through interviews. Her outspoken nature brought her into the spotlight and showcased her determination to uncover the truth about the scandal.
Throughout her life, Martha Mitchell faced numerous challenges and struggles. From her battle with dyslexia to the strain of her failed first marriage, she demonstrated resilience and determination. Her passion for the arts, alongside her insightful and bold personality, left a lasting impact on those who encountered her. Martha Mitchell’s role in the Watergate scandal and her bravery in speaking out against corruption cemented her place in history.