William Henry Harrison is notable for not wearing a coat during his presidential inauguration.
William Henry Harrison's Inauguration: A Unique Choice
On March 4, 1841, William Henry Harrison delivered his inaugural address, making a distinctive choice regarding his attire. Despite the day being overcast with a cold wind and an estimated noon temperature of 48 °F (9 °C), the president-elect opted not to wear an overcoat, hat, or gloves for the ceremony.
Harrison's address on that brisk day was also historically significant for its length, running an extensive 8,445 words, making it the longest inaugural address delivered by any U.S. president to date.
Here's a summary of the circumstances surrounding this memorable event:
| President | Event | Attire Choice (Coat) | Weather Conditions | Key Detail |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| William Henry Harrison | Inauguration (March 4, 1841) | Chose not to wear an overcoat, hat, or gloves | Overcast, cold wind, approximately 48 °F (9 °C) | Delivered the longest inaugural address (8,445 words). |
His decision to forgo warmer attire on a cold day remains a notable detail of his inauguration.
