The Fifty-Seventh Presidential Inauguration on January 21, 2013 presented by the Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies.

Swearing-In Ceremony for President James Madison

Sixth Inaugural Ceremonies, March 4, 1809

Inaugural Address

‘Unwilling to depart from examples of the most revered authority, I avail myself of the occasion now presented to express the profound impression made on me by the call of my country to the station to the duties of which I am about to pledge myself by the most solemn of sanctions.’

Read the address
(Words: 1191)

Presidential Oath of Office

Administered to James Madison by the Honorable John Marshall, Chief Justice of the United States.

Library of Congress

  • Bible Used: Unknown
  • Attire: Wore a suit made entirely of American grown, carded, woven, cut, and sewed wool.

Vice Presidential Oath of Office

Administered to George Clinton.

Library of Congress

Location

House of Representatives Chamber,
U.S. Capitol
Washington, DC

Facts, Firsts & Precedents

The first Inaugural Ball was held the evening after the swearing-in ceremony. It took place at Long's Hotel and tickets cost $4 each.

Weather

Cloudy. It rained the day before, leaving the streets muddy.