Lecture Notes: George Washington's First Inauguration

Presenter

• Edward J Larson
  • Inaugural Library Fellow at the Fred W Smith National Library for the study of George Washington at Mount Vernon.

Context

• Date of Lecture: April 30, 2014
• Significance: 225th anniversary of George Washington's inauguration (April 30, 1789)

Significance of the Event

• Historical Context
  • First inauguration of a U.S. president.
  • First national presidential election; electors from all states.
  • Unique in global context: first popularly elected chief executive for a continental republic.
  • Marked a shift from monarchy (coronations) to a democratic process (inaugurations).

Washington's Journey to Inauguration

• Departure from Mount Vernon
  • Traveled to New York, then the seat of the U.S. government.
  • Stopped in major cities: Baltimore, Wilmington, Philadelphia, Trenton.
  • Greeted by growing and enthusiastic crowds.

New York Preparations

• Initial Plans
  • Originally planned as a quiet, indoor swearing-in ceremony.
• Revised Plans
  • Due to massive public interest, moved to an outdoor balcony at Federal Hall.
  • Crowds filled New York City streets.
  • Special arrangements made to accommodate the audience.

Inauguration Day Details

• Ceremony
  • Washington took the oath on a balcony overlooking a large intersection.
  • Dressed in a suit made from Connecticut broadcloth, emphasizing American craftsmanship.
• Address
  • Delivered a short yet powerful inaugural address.
  • Noted for his brevity and impact despite not being a natural speaker.

Post-Ceremony Events

• Church Service
  • Attended services at a nearby Episcopal church with Congress.
• Celebrations
  • Evening fireworks display over New York City, lasting over an hour, signaling the importance of the event.

Key Takeaways

• Unifying Moment for America
  • Washington's inauguration symbolized the unity of the new nation.
  • Highlighted the shift from colonial governance to a federal system under a national president.