When did George Washington’s first presidential inauguration take place?

George Washington’s first presidential inauguration took place on April 30, 1789.

The ceremony was held on the balcony of Federal Hall in New York City, then the national capital. Robert R. Livingston, chancellor of New York, administered the presidential oath. Washington reportedly added “So help me God” after repeating the constitutional oath, although historians debate the precise details of that wording.

Washington’s inauguration came nearly two months after his four-year term officially began on March 4. Delays in counting electoral votes and arranging the new federal government made the ceremony occur later than the constitutional start date. John Adams became vice president at the same time and took his own oath indoors.

Washington’s assumption of office established ceremonial patterns later presidents adapted, including a public oath and inaugural address. New York remained the temporary capital until the government moved to Philadelphia in 1790. The permanent capital later moved to Washington, D.C., in 1800.