Attraction Guide: Teddy Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site, Buffalo, United States

Teddy Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site Guide

Witness History: Where Teddy Roosevelt Became President Guide

Step into the humble yet historically significant Wilcox House, now the Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site, and witness the very spot where Theodore Roosevelt was sworn in as the 26th President of the United States. This unassuming residence holds a pivotal place in American history, offering a unique glimpse into a moment of national crisis and the dawn of a new era. On September 6, 1901, President William McKinley was shot while attending the Pan-American Exposition in Buffalo. He was taken to a hospital, but his condition worsened. Vice President Theodore Roosevelt, who was vacationing in the Adirondacks, rushed to Buffalo. McKinley passed away on September 14th. In a moment of national mourning and uncertainty, Roosevelt was sworn in as President in the library of the Wilcox House, owned by Ansley Wilcox, a prominent Buffalo attorney. This impromptu ceremony marked a turning point in American history, ushering in the progressive era under Roosevelt's leadership. Today, the Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site offers guided tours that bring this dramatic moment to life. Explore the meticulously restored rooms, including the library where the oath of office was administered. Learn about the events leading up to the inauguration, the challenges Roosevelt faced, and the impact of his presidency. While the site doesn't have a specific culinary tradition, its location in Buffalo offers access to the city's diverse food scene, including its famous Buffalo wings.