In September 1901, a small gathering assembled on the porch of the Wilcox home in Buffalo, New York, where Theodore Roosevelt took the oath of office following the assassination of William McKinley. The house, draped in American flags, became an unexpected setting for a pivotal moment in national history as Roosevelt assumed the presidency amid uncertainty and mourning.
Inauguration of Pres. McKinley
Crowds gathered at the United States Capitol in Washington, D.C., on March 4, 1901, for the inauguration of President William McKinley. A temporary platform trimmed with American flags and patriotic bunting stood outside the Capitol as government officials, military officers, and invited guests assembled for the ceremony. Thousands of spectators filled the grounds to witness the public oath of office, a tradition that had long drawn citizens to the capital.