On April 30, 1789, George Washington was inaugurated as the first President of the United States at New York City’s Federal Hall. In his address, Washington expressed his anxiety about leading a new nation and reflected on the notification of his election earlier in the month. Robert Livingston administered the oath of office, after which Washington kissed the Bible and a salvo of cannons was discharged in celebration.
The first-ever presidential inauguration was unlike modern-day events, being held in April in New York City. Only three other presidents besides Washington have been inaugurated in April, following the deaths of their predecessors. Washington’s inauguration included only one ball, held a week later, with private citizens funding fireworks to mark the occasion. Washington’s wife Martha did not make the trip to New York City for the inauguration.
Before his inauguration, Washington embarked on a tour of the nation he was to lead, traveling through various cities on his way to New York City. Accompanied by his official escort and aide, Washington was greeted with honor and affection by citizens and officials in each location. He arrived in New York City on April 23, traveling on a specially built barge for the occasion. Washington’s actions and decisions during his presidency helped shape the role and powers of the office, setting formal and informal precedents for future presidents.
Washington believed in striking a delicate balance in the presidency, making it powerful enough to function effectively in a national government while avoiding any appearance of establishing a monarchy or dictatorship. By influencing the presidency’s future path, Washington set standards in political power, military practice, and economic policy. His actions during his presidency, such as his inaugural address, the manner of his inauguration, and his interactions on his tour of the nation, left a lasting legacy on the office of the President and its place in American history.
