The Presidential Book Club began with a simple conversation over a meal with my friend Daniel. During that discussion, Daniel remarked that if I ever began a new reading list, I should let him know so that he could join. Out of that exchange emerged the idea of a focused project on the American presidency. Whether the suggestion originated with him or me is uncertain, but the outcome was clear. We agreed to launch a book club centered on the lives, leadership, and legacies of United States presidents, beginning with George Washington and progressing in chronological order (Ellis, 2004).
The group started in the summer of 2025 and is modest in size but strong in purpose. At present there are only four members who are committed to reading and reflecting on the readings when we get together. Though we often extend invitations to friends and acquaintances to join, none have taken up the offer. The prospect of reading multiple volumes on the lives of presidents does not appeal to everyone. For us, however, the challenge of understanding the evolution of the presidency and the broader context of American political life is both intellectually engaging and historically significant (Ferling, 2009).
The structure of the club is straightforward. We are progressing through the presidents in chronological order, beginning with George Washington, and examining both the individuals and the historical forces that defined their administrations. Each president is introduced with a concise overview, details of their cabinet and family, and a list of books connected to their time in office. By following this format, the club creates a consistent framework that balances structured study with open discussion. In doing so, it functions not merely as a reading group but as a collaborative exploration of the presidency and the political development of the United States (Meacham, 2018).
Presidents of The United States of America
George Washington
Served two terms between April 30th, 1789 - March 4, 1797
Cabinet:
Sec of State: Thomas Jefferson, Edmund Randolph, Timothy Pickering
Sec of Treasury: Alexander Hamilton, Oliver Wolcott
Sec of War: Henry Knox, Timothy Pickering, James McHenry
Attorney General: Edmund Randolph, William Bradford, Charles Lee
Family:
Wife was Martha Washington
Step childern were John Parke Custis, Martha Parke Custis
Book Read:
George Washington at "Head Quarters, Dobbs Ferry", by Mary Donovan
Book Summary: This short historical work by Mary Donovan highlights a pivotal moment in 1781 when George Washington established his headquarters at Dobbs Ferry, New York. The book situates Washington’s leadership within the final stages of the Revolutionary War and emphasizes his ability to balance military necessity with political vision. Donovan illustrates how Washington’s presence at Dobbs Ferry underscored both his logistical command and his symbolic role as a unifying figure at a critical turning point in the struggle for independence (Donovan, 2007).
Additional Readings:
Washington, Ron Chernow
His Excellency: George Washington by Joseph J. Ellis
The Indian World of George Washington: The First President, the First Americans, and the Birth of the Nation by Colin G. Calloway
References
Donovan, M. (2007). George Washington at “Head Quarters, Dobbs Ferry”. Dobbs Ferry Historical Society.
Ellis, J.J. (2004). His Excellency: George Washington. New York: Vintage Books.
Ferling, J. (2009). Independence: The Struggle to Set America Free. New York: Bloomsbury Press.
Meacham, J. (2018). The Soul of America: The Battle for Our Better Angels. New York: Random House.