Socks: Life as the First Cat
Socks, the cat that rose to prominence as the family pet of President Clinton, was put to sleep on February 20 at age 19 after a battle with cancer of the mouth and jaw. Found as an Arkansas stray, Socks was adopted by Chelsea in 1990 and promptly made himself at home in the Governor's mansion and later the White House. Socks was known as a friendly cat among White House staff and could often be found lounging on his bed in the Engineers' Room or on the chair outside the Oval Office.
Frequently visiting local hospitals and nursing homes, Socks led a pleasant life. Despite a rivalry with Buddy, a chocolate Labrador who came to the White House in 1997, Socks gained international notoriety, featured on stamps issued by the Central African Republic in 1996, garnering numerous mentions in newspapers and popular TV shows, and receiving plenty of fan mail which led to Hillary Clinton's book, "Dear Socks, Dear Buddy: Kids' Letters to the First Pets." When President Clinton's second term came to a close in 2001 and relations with Buddy had not improved, Socks moved to Hollywood, Maryland, with his long-time friend Betty Currie, the presidential secretary. Socks remained in good health for the majority of his comfortable retirement, only exhibiting complications in the last year.
From a stray, to the White House to Hollywood, Socks lived a charmed life and will be missed by fans all over the world.
To commemorate the life of Socks, memorabilia celebrating the First Cat is available on the Museum Store website, including a Socks silver charm, Socks Cocktail Bag and Socks Scarf.
