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

Swearing-In Ceremony for President Zachary Taylor

Sixteenth Inaugural Ceremonies, March 5, 1849

Inaugural Address

‘Elected by the American people to the highest office known to our laws, I appear here to take the oath prescribed by the Constitution, and, in compliance with a time-honored custom, to address those who are now assembled.’

Read the address
(Words: 1087)

Presidential Oath of Office

Administered to Zachary Taylor by the Honorable Roger B. Taney, Chief Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court.

Library of Congress

  • Bible Used: Unknown
  • Attire: Unknown

Vice Presidential Oath of Office

Administered to Millard Fillmore.

Library of Congress

  • Location

    East Portico,
    U.S. Capitol
    Washington, DC

  • Facts, Firsts & Precedents

    • March 4, 1849 fell on a Sunday, so following precedent, Taylor was Inaugurated the next day, Monday, March 5, 1849.

    • Three Inaugural balls were held that evening, and Taylor attended all of them.

  • Weather

    Cloudy with snow flurries. Heavy snow began during the Inaugural ball. Estimated noon temperature of 42°F.