History SectionCommittee Section

Message from Chairman Trent Lott

photo of Chairman Trent LottWelcome to the official website of the Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies.We’ve recently added an expansive new history section which already is a hit with teachers, students, history and trivia buffs, and meteorologists around the country.

With just a few clicks, you will learn what the weather was, what the president wore, and what precedents were set for every inauguration dating back to that of George Washington in 1789. Plus, you can link to video and still inaugural images of their swearing-in ceremonies. It’s not only informative, it’s just plain fun.

I invite all Americans to regularly visit our official JCCIC website during the coming months as we mark the preparations for the 55th inauguration of the President of the United States on January 20, 2005, and look back on past inaugurations. It is my hope that this website will encourage you to become more involved in this important part of our American history.

Facts & Firsts

March 4, 1817: James Monroe was the first President to take the oath of office and delivery the Inaugural address outdoors. The ceremony took place on a platform in front of the temporary Brick Capitol (where the Supreme Court now stands).

Read more facts and firsts.
There are
98
days until
Inauguration Day,
January 20, 2005.

 

Ticketing Information

image of Inaugural ticketTickets for the Inaugural swearing-in ceremony will be distributed to constituents in January 2005 by both Senators and Representatives of the 109th Congress.

Want to Participate?

image of a snare drumRequests to participate in Inauguration day events for marching bands, marching units, mounted units, and other performers are collected by the Armed Forces Inaugural Committee.  The Presidential Inaugural Committee, formed after the November election, selects the participants from the collected requests.  
 
Further information and an application to participate may be found at the Armed Forces Inaugural Committee.