MARIE BEALE
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The daughter-in-law of Edward and Mary Beale, Marie Chase Oge Beale, proved instrumental in the history and preservation of Decatur House. Beale was raised in San Francisco, California, and was the daughter of prominent attorney William L. Oge. Her mother’s ancestors included Philander Chase, founder of Kenyon College, and Salmon P. Chase, former Chief Justice of the United States. In 1903, she married Truxtun Beale, who spent much of his time at his family’s Bakersfield, California ranch. Despite her distinguished ancestery and high standing in West coast society, Marie Beale was a virtually unknown Californian when she came to
Washington with her new husband, temporarily in 1903 and then permanently
in 1912. However she quickly established herself as a leader of Washington society in the first half of the 20th century.

For Decatur House, Beale’s most important role was within the historic preservation movement. She not only saved the Decatur House from
demolition and bequeathed it to the National Trust for Historic Preservation,
but promoted her interest in history and preservation as she traveled the world, wrote books, and even made radio speeches about her many interests. On trips to South America, Europe and the Middle East, Marie often noted the destructive role of “progress” on great monuments and everyday structures
and entire cultures. Truly appreciative of other places and people, at home
Beale welcomed visitors and dignitaries from overseas to Decatur
House, and became an unofficial ambassador for Washington, DC.
Continuing the long-standing entertaining tradition of this Lafayette Square residence, Marie Beale brought together international political, social, and cultural leaders under its roof.

Once described as “formidable,” Marie Beale was a woman both of and
ahead of her time – a woman of vitality and intelligence that made her one of Washington’s most memorable citizens – and forever one of Decatur House’s most beloved residents.