In our continuing series in celebration of the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, the Historical Society of the New York Courts is highlighting New York’s role in the creation of our nation and its legacy through its annual calendar. In April, we are spotlighting George Washington’s inauguration.
April: George Washington’s Inauguration
On April 30, 1789, George Washington was inaugurated as the first President of the United States of America at Federal Hall in New York City, the first capital of the new nation. In his inaugural address, Washington spoke to his “Fellow Citizens” of America’s “experiment” in a “Republican model of Government,” and of his “veneration and love” for his country. In 1889, New York City held a Centennial celebration and parade under a temporary arch. A permanent arch, Washington Square Arch, located in Washington Square Park, was dedicated in 1895.
Image Captions
Inauguration of Washington, 1789 by Ramón de Elorriaga, 1889. Image in public domain in the United States, courtesy of Wikimedia Commons.
Photograph of the Washington Inaugural Centennial Celebration in New York City, in front of the 23rd Street Arch, held on April 29th & 30th, and on May 1st, 1889. Library of Congress, Prints and Photographs Division, LC-USZ62-83837.