The New York Times recently featured an article shedding light on the fascinating story of Perle Mesta, one of the most prominent and influential social figures in 20th-century America. The piece, written in connection with the release of Meryl Gordon’s new biography The Woman Who Knew Everyone, explores Mesta’s rise to fame, her impact on Washington’s social and political scene, and the complexities of her character. Known as the “hostess with the mostes’,” Mesta turned hospitality into a formidable tool of influence, blending charm, politics, and cultural acumen to carve out a place in history.
The rise of perle mesta
Born Pearl Reid Skirvin in 1882 in Michigan, Mesta’s early life was far from the glamorous one she would later cultivate. Her family moved to Oklahoma after her father, an ambitious oil magnate, made a fortune in Texas. After the death of her mother, Mesta, then in her twenties, became deeply involved in family matters, including confronting her father’s dubious financial dealings. Though she briefly aspired to be an opera singer and acted as a chaperone for her younger sister during her acting career, her life took a dramatic turn when she married George Mesta, an Italian American steel magnate from Pittsburgh.
Their marriage lasted nearly a decade, ending with George’s sudden death from a heart attack, which left her both wealthy and childless. It was during this period of reinvention that Mesta transitioned into the Washington, D.C., social scene. Embracing her financial independence, she adopted the name “Perle” and began hosting legendary parties that earned her a reputation as a connector of people and ideas. Her gatherings became the place where influential figures from politics, arts, and culture converged.
Politics, diplomacy, and controversy
Mesta’s influence extended far beyond her social gatherings. A close ally of President Harry S. Truman, she was appointed as U.S. ambassador to Luxembourg in 1949. Her time as an ambassador was controversial, with critics accusing her of lacking diplomatic expertise. Some diplomats dismissed her as unqualified, while others appreciated her enthusiasm and ability to draw attention to her position.
The New York Times highlights that Mesta’s political loyalties also stirred tensions. She was a staunch supporter of Lyndon B. Johnson, even refusing to endorse John F. Kennedy in the 1960 presidential election. This led to a falling-out with Jacqueline Kennedy, with whom Mesta had previously shared a friendly relationship. Despite these challenges, Mesta continued to exert influence, championing causes like the Equal Rights Amendment and advocating for women’s rights.
A cultural icon
Mesta’s larger-than-life persona transcended politics, making her a cultural figure who inspired works of art and entertainment. Irving Berlin’s 1950 musical Call Me Madam was a tribute to her, with Ethel Merman playing a character based on Mesta. The show was a massive success, generating record-breaking ticket sales and introducing the now-famous lyric, “the hostess with the mostes’ on the ball.” Mesta was also said to have inspired characters in literary works, including Dolly Harrison in Allen Drury’s Advise and Consent.
The New York Times notes that while Mesta’s legacy was immortalized in art, her personal life was not without its struggles. She was often criticized for her flamboyance, and rivals mocked her for her lack of intellectual depth and fluctuating weight. Despite this, Mesta remained resilient, thriving on connection and the ability to unite people from all walks of life.
The decline of the great hostess
The article poignantly reflects on how Mesta’s era marked the height of bipartisan gatherings in Washington, a tradition that has since faded. By the time of her death in 1975, at the age of 92, the world she had dominated had begun to change. Political polarization and the rise of technology reshaped the social and political landscape, leaving little room for the kind of influence that Mesta wielded through her legendary parties.
Perle Mesta’s lasting impact
Mesta’s life, as captured by Meryl Gordon, is a testament to the power of reinvention and resilience. From a wealthy widow to a cultural icon and political force, she navigated a world that often underestimated her, using her charisma and connections to leave a lasting mark.
To delve deeper into Perle Mesta’s extraordinary life and her role in shaping 20th-century America, read the full article on the New York Times website. You can also read the article on the Washingtonian.
