Presidential Fun Fact of the Day

Some tidbits from James Buchanan's inauguration:

1. Buchanan was ill before and during his inauguration with a stomach infection half-jokingly called the "National Hotel Disease" in reference to the hotel he was staying at. Once he moved into the White House with his own cook, the stomach ailment went away.

2. There were two spectacular floats in his inaugural parade that were meant to symbolize the strength of the (then-fragile) Union. One had a woman dressed as the goddess Liberty, and the other was a replica of the ship Constitution.

3. There have only been three references to Christianity in the presidents' inaugural addresses. Buchanan's was one of them. He pushed for a "spirit of Christian benevolence towards our fellow-men" in his speech.

4. Buchanan's inaugural ball was lit by gas chandeliers. All previous presidents had candlelight.

Posted by Jennifer at March 12, 2004 06:56 AM

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