Mary “Polly” “Maria” Jefferson Eppes

Mary Jefferson Eppes (August 1, 1778 – April 17, 1804) was the daughter of Thomas Jefferson, third President of the United States, and his only wife Martha Wayles Skelton Jefferson. She is the younger of Jefferson's two children to survive infancy. Her older sister Martha Jefferson Randolph was considered First Lady of the United States while their widowed father served as President. She was affectionately known as "Polly" in her childhood, but later chose the nickname "Maria." She was known as such until her death at age 25.

She always had a sickly disposition as her mother did, but she also inherited her mother's beauty which was frequently complimented, to her chagrin. She preferred to be known for her character or mind.

She married her childhood friend and cousin John Wayles Eppes on October 13, 1797. Their first child was born in January 1800; but lived only a few days. She gave birth to Francis W. Eppes in 1801. This was their only child to survive infancy. Their last child was born in February 1804. The baby girl was small and died later that year.

Maria never recovered from her third childbirth. Her condition worsened and her father, by then the President, rushed home when Congress adjourned on March 27. She was moved to Monticello and nursed by Jefferson and her sister Martha. She died a few weeks later and was buried beside her mother.