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Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site

Theodore Roosevelt’s Inaugural National Historic Site preserves the Ansley Wilcox House at 641 Delaware Avenue in Buffalo, New York. Here, after the assassination of William McKinley, Theodore Roosevelt took the oath of office as President of the United States on September 14, 1901. A New York historical marker outside the house indicates that it was the site of Theodore Roosevelt’s Inauguration.

He would leave a lasting impact upon the nation, expanding the presidency’s powers, advocating consumer protection laws and regulation of big business, supporting the conservation of the environment, and asserting America’s authority abroad. While he had not come into office through a national election, Theodore Roosevelt’s presidency would become one of the most important in America’s history and continues to affect the nation today. Bed Bug Exterminator Buffalo

History

The oldest part of the National Historic Site includes the lone surviving structure from the Buffalo Barracks compound. Due to tensions between the U.S. and Anglo-Canada, a military post was constructed to ensure border security. Built in 1839, the post encompassed all the land from Allen Street to North Street and Delaware Ave to Main Street. The structure that would later be incorporated into the Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site started life in 1840 as the Barracks’ officers’ quarters.  After the post was disbanded in 1845, the home reverted to a private residence. Subsequent owners continued to modify the structure, adding and demolishing structures and additions. In the late 19th century, Dexter Rumsey gave the property to his son-in-law Ansley Wilcox and his wife, Mary Grace Rumsey. The newest inhabitants made extensive renovations to the structure. Plans for these renovations are still on file at the Historic Site.

Inauguration of Theodore Roosevelt

In 1901, while attending the Pan-American Exposition, President William McKinley was shot twice at close range by anarchist Leon Czolgosz.  Although early doctor’s reports on the President’s condition were positive, McKinley’s condition soon worsened: while Vice President Theodore Roosevelt rushed back to Buffalo, he was informed on arrival that McKinley had died.

It was decided to conduct the inauguration immediately due to President McKinley’s death’s tragic and politically charged circumstances. The most appropriate site was determined to be the Wilcox home. Approximately 50 dignitaries, family members, and cabinet officials gathered in the front library for the inauguration while Federal Judge John R. Hazel administered the oath. No photographic image exists of the ceremony itself, although the room was heavily photographed after the inauguration had concluded.

Address: 641 Delaware Ave, Buffalo, NY

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