But on the first Inauguration Day, in 1789, George Washington did something else. He gave a speech. Every president since has followed his example and delivered an inaugural address as part of the ...

In 1789, when George Washington was sworn in for the first time, his speech was not available to the public until several days later. Thomas Jefferson became the first president to have his ...

in front of George Washington’s inaugural coat. (WTOP/Alan Etter) Washington delivered his first inauguration speech on April 30, 1789, at Federal Hall in New York City. He wore the custom coat ...

and it became a 15-to-20-minute speech," Ventura said. At 26 Wall St. is where Washington's statue marks the spot. "It's overlooked a lot that New York City was the first capitol, and that George ...