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

Teddy Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site Guide

Step Back in Time: Where a Nation Found its Leader Guide

Welcome to the Teddy Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site, a pivotal location in American history! This unassuming house in Buffalo, New York, marks the spot where Theodore Roosevelt was sworn in as the 26th President of the United States following the assassination of President William McKinley in 1901. It's more than just a building; it's a tangible link to a moment of national crisis and the dawn of the Progressive Era. Prepare to be transported back in time and witness history unfold. The site's history is deeply intertwined with the tragic events of September 1901. President McKinley was shot while attending the Pan-American Exposition in Buffalo. He was taken to a private residence, the home of Ansley Wilcox, a prominent Buffalo attorney. After McKinley succumbed to his injuries, Vice President Theodore Roosevelt, who was on a hiking trip in the Adirondacks, rushed to Buffalo. In a simple ceremony held in the library of the Wilcox House, Roosevelt took the oath of office, becoming the youngest president in American history at the age of 42. The house was later preserved as a museum to commemorate this significant event. Today, visitors can explore the meticulously restored rooms of the Wilcox House, experiencing what it was like on that fateful day. Guided tours offer fascinating insights into the lives of the Wilcox family, the circumstances surrounding McKinley's assassination, and the immediate aftermath. You can see the very room where Roosevelt took the oath of office, view exhibits showcasing artifacts from the period, and learn about Roosevelt's early life and political career. The site also hosts special events and educational programs throughout the year, making it a dynamic and engaging destination for history buffs of all ages. While there isn't a specific culinary tradition associated with the site itself, exploring the nearby Allentown neighborhood offers a variety of dining options reflecting Buffalo's diverse culinary scene.