From the archives, September 2009 in fact. I took a trip up to the masonic lodge in Newburyport, MA to see the George Washington inaugural bible. I’d heard stories about it, and thought it was a short trip to take to see such a part of American history. I’m glad I went.
I read in the paper that this piece of history would be on display about 20 minutes from home and I couldn’t resist. This bible was printed in 1767 and used at George Washinton’s inauguration on April 30, 1789. It has also been used in some of the most regrettable events in our history, like Lincoln’s funeral and Jimmy Carter’s inauguration.
Here is how the Free Masons of St. John’s Lodge No. 1, tell the story of the George Washington Inaugural Bible,
“On April 30, 1789, an event took place of the greatest importance to the whole world. It was the inauguration of George Washington as the first President of the United States, on the spot marked today by his statue erected in Wall Street, near Nassau…
…“Everything was ready for the administration of the oath of office to the president of the new government, when it was found that there had not been provided a Holy Bible on which the President-elect could swear allegiance to the Constitution, Jacob Morton, who was Marshal of the parade and at that time, Master of St. John’s Lodge, was standing close by, and, seeing the dilemma they were in, remarked that he could get the altar Bible of St. John’s Lodge, which met at the “Old Coffee House,” corner of Water and Wall Streets. Chancellor Livingston begged him to do so. The Bible was brought, and the ceremony proceeded.
George Washington Inaugural Bible
Up close
Washington the Free Mason
A funeral notice for Washington
