The Franklin Mint History Of The United States, 1776-1973
Manufacturer
The Franklin Mint
CultureAmerican
DateNo Date
MediumSilver
DimensionsOverall: 1 3/4 in. (45 mm.)
Credit LineGift of Dr. Eugene F. Poutasse
Object number76.81.14
Not on view
DescriptionOne of collection of 200 silver medals.The 1789 medal: Washington Inaugrated First President
The Senate that convened in New York on April 6 counted the electoral votes cast in February. A messenger was then sent with a letter informing Washington of his election.
Washington wished to spend his remaining years at Mount Vernon. Messages from prominent persons helped overcome his reluctance to re-enter public life. One from Gouverneur Morris is typical: "I have ever thought, and have ever said that you must be president; no other man can fill that office."
Leaving for New York on April 16, his journy was one of great excitement; triumphal arches were raised in Philadelphia and Trenton; everywhere there were crowds and speeches but finally on April 23 a decorated barge took him across the bay from New Jersey to New York.
The city was crowded on the day of the inauguration. Militia companies escorted Washington's coach and other carriages bearing prominent officials and foreign ministers to Feder Hall- the first inaugral parade. Wearing a brown broadcloth suit of American manufacture, he took the oath from Chanceller Robert R. Lingingston on the balcony and, followed by the huzzas of the crowd, went inside to deliver his inaugural address. Once again he had answered the call to duty.
Many girfts were sent, but aristocratic Charles IV of Spain was at a loss what to send the head of recently rebellious colonies. With great pomp and ceremony, he send a jackass which Washington named "Royal Gift" and started the mule-breeding business in America.
