Facts on Past US President Inaugurations

The Presidential inauguration ceremony has had many alterations since 1789, when George Wasington was first sworn in. Technology also changed how the nation has seen the new president take office. Get below to learn more about past inaugurations.

The First on 1789

George Washington's inauguration took place on the balcony of Federal Hall in New York. Robert Livingston, chancellor of the state of New York, administered the oath of office.

Date and time

Under the original terms of the Constitution, the president and vice president were inaugurated on March 4 of the year after their election.

The 2oth Amendment states that the term of the President expires at noon January 20. The amendment was ratified in 1933.

Shortest

George Washington's second inaugural address was only 135 words and lasted about two minutes.

Oath of Office on 1797

John Adams was the first to receive the oath of office from the chief justice of the United States. (Oliver Ellsworth in Philadelphia)

Technology on 1845

James K. Polk's inauguration was the first to be covered by telegraph. This was also the first known inauguration featured in a newspaper illustration (Illustrated London News).

Chief Justices

Chief Justice John Marshall presided over nine inauguration, from Thomas Jefferson in 1807 to Andrew Jackson in 1833, the most by any chief justice.

Parades on 1809

James Madison had the first organized inaugural parade.

From CNN