Monday, October 5, 2009

What they ate: 1909 Inaugural Ball, President William H. Taft




So began the presidential tenure of William H. Taft, perhaps the most uncomfortable of fits in the Office of President: He served one term, losing to Woodrow Wilson. He would return to the law, his true calling, and serve out his life as Chief Justice of the United States Supreme Court, later writing of his time in office, "I don't remember that I ever was President."
At least it was a grand dinner.

6 comments:

Deanna said...

President Taft may not have remembered being the President, but I would think that those that attended the Dinner would remember the great meal that was served.
Grins,
d from homehaven

susan said...

After a closeup of the menu, I think maybe that is why he Wasn't re-elected..not much imagination going on...even for 1909 :)

Design Esquire said...

There's so many sweets on the menu! That's my kind of dinner. Great post!

Jessica Ryan said...

Love these posts!

Kim @ NewlyWoodwards said...

I now find Taft equally endearing and fascinating. Sounds like he found his calling, which I very much appreciate. Makes me think I may find mine someday. =)

Thanks for stopping by our blog. I'll definitely be back. =)

Now, off to Wikipedia to find out more about Taft.

The Quintessential Magpie said...

I think this is fascinating, Catherine! I have friends in Florida (Taft descendants) who have some of the jewelry worn by Mrs. Taft as First Lady and some furnishings from the family as well. As you stated, he really didn't care much for the job and was much prouder about what he did on the bench.

I also have to smile because Taft was such a LARGE man. Maybe that fact is explained by the large number of sweets on the menu. ;-)

XO,

Sheila :-)