Jim Limber Davis was rescued from an abusive relative by First Lady Varina Davis when he was only five years old. Jefferson and Varina Davis then became his legal guardians and Jim lived with them in the White House for several years,
enjoying life as a member of their family. When the Union Soldiers invaded Richmond, Virginia, and captured Jefferson Davis, they also kidnapped Jim Limber. Soon after his capture, cruel rumors spread that Jim Limber was Jefferson Davisï¿1/2 slave. After the Civil War, Jefferson Davis tried to locate Jim, but he was never found.
This true story shows how Jim Limber was accepted as one of the Davis's own children and reveals their love for him. Although Jimï¿1/2s whereabouts after the war still remain a mystery, this story offers an example of compassion during this complex time in our nation's history.