• A 1901 sketch of Theodore Roosevelt taking the oath of office in Buffalo, NY.

    Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural

    National Historic Site New York

An Unexpected Inauguration that Changed the Nation

As president, Theodore Roosevelt created protections for ordinary citizens, began regulation of big business, and made the US a major force in international affairs. Yet one of the most important presidencies in America's history nearly didn't happen. See the place where a brief, emotional, and improvised ceremony in Buffalo, NY brought TR into office, and forever altered the nation.

Did You Know?

Woman c. 1900

While Theodore Roosevelt did not make significant progress towards the cause of women's suffrage during his presidency, he did speak in favor of it during his 1912 presidential campaign as the "Bull Moose" (Progressive) Party candidate. More...