From the early 1800s to the early 20th century, presidents' personal secretaries were key figures in the daily workings of the presidency. The position, which includes a secretary who manages correspondence, visitor schedules, and routine administrative matters without an official title or government stipend, was often overlooked by the public. From 1789 to the mid-1800s, these trusted scribes were responsible for correspondence and visitor schedules without official status. The role was formalized when Congress created the office called “Private Secretary at the White House” and voted its incumbent a salary. During Thomas Jefferson’s tenure, Meriwether Lewis was responsible for managing the expanding responsibilities of the federal government. The president”s role evolved into a more bureaucratic function with the appointment of William Loeb. The early 1900s saw the role become a proto-chief of staff, foreshadowing the modern executive office.