PLANS BEING LAID FOR RETURN TO INAUGURAL 'OF OLDER DAYS'
Washington, D.C. (JFK+50) On November 18, 1924, The Evening Star reports that "plans are being laid here in Washington...that there be a return to the inauguration ceremonials of the older days."
This would include "the people and the United States participating in parades, in balls, receptions and other forms of dignified celebration."
In keeping with President Calvin Coolidge's persona, he would prefer "the briefest and simplest possible" inaugural ceremony.
Robert T. Small suggests "residents of Washington and some political leaders" believe the President might "give approval to plans for a general celebration."
Because President Warren G. Harding, Coolidge's predecessor, cancelled inaugural ceremonies in 1921, there is a fear that "there may never be a return to the ceremonies of the past."
JFK+50 NOTE
According to the March 4, 1925 issue of The Evening Star, although "the old splendor (was) missing (from the Inaugural) at (the) wish of (the) President," as many as 50,000 people flocked to the Capital to witness "a colorful parade passing in review." The Star describes the crowds as celebrating "with spontaneous fervor."
SOURCES
"Coolidge Urged To Reconsider Ban On Big Inaugural Display," by Robert T. Small, The Evening Star, November 18, 1924, Chronicling America, Library of Congress, www.loc.gov/
"Thousands Watch Colorful Parade Passing In Review," The Evening Star, Washington, D.C., March 4, 1925, Chronicling America, Library of Congress, www.loc.gov/
