Notes on George Washington's First Inauguration

Introduction

• Speaker: Edward J Larson, Library Fellow at Fred W Smith National Library.
• Occasion: 225th anniversary of George Washington’s first inauguration as President of the United States.
• Date of Lecture: April 30, 2014.
• Location: Mount Vernon.

Significance of the Inauguration

• Historical Context:
  • First national president elected by electors from all states.
  • Unique event worldwide as a popularly elected chief executive for a continental republic.
  • Contrasted with monarchical systems prevalent at the time.
• Symbolic Importance:
  • Marked the unity of the new government under the Constitution.
  • Transitioned from state-centric governance to a national leadership.

Washington’s Journey

• Procession Route:
  • From Mount Vernon to New York, the then-seat of government.
  • Stops in Baltimore, Wilmington, Philadelphia, and Trenton.
  • Crowds grew at each stop, underscoring national unity.

Change in Ceremony Plans

• Initial Plans:
  • Quiet swearing-in ceremony inside House Chambers in Federal Hall.
• Revised Plans:
  • Moved to an outdoor balcony of Federal Hall due to large public interest.
  • Thousands lined the streets in New York to witness the event.

Inauguration Details

• Inauguration Day:
  • Washington wore a suit made from Connecticut broad cloth, emphasizing American-made attire.
  • Took the oath of office on Federal Hall’s balcony, overlooking New York's largest open intersection.
• Crowd Reception:
  • Street, balconies, and rooftops were crowded with onlookers.

Post-Inauguration Events

• Inaugural Address:
  • Short and powerful, reflecting Washington's reputation as a non-eloquent speaker.
• Subsequent Activities:
  • Attended prayers at a nearby Episcopal church with Congress.
  • Concluded with a grand fireworks display lasting over an hour in New York City, signifying celebration and national pride.