Lorena Hickock

In Girl in the Glass, when the FBI raids the Willard Hotel, the Clypeate has planned ahead. James’ hotel room is booked under the name Lorena Hickock, a close friend of Eleanor, in hopes of guaranteeing discretion and privacy. However, when the FBI threatens to enter the room, Bruce slows them down by implying Eleanor Roosevelt is also in the room. Hickock and the First Lady became good friends during FDR’s 1932 presidential campaign, when Lorena was a reporter covering the election.

Over the years, they exchanged letters and diaries suggesting a deeply affectionate and loving relationship. When diabetes forced Hickok to give up her reporting work, she moved to Washington, D.C. For the next five years, while working for the Democratic National Committee, Lorena lived at the White House at Eleanor’s invitation. After FDR’s death, Lorena moved with Eleanor to Hyde Park, living in a cottage on the Roosevelt estate.

Lorena Hickock

Lorena with Eleanor Roosevelt