On March 4, 1901, the second inauguration of President William McKinley took place in Washington, D. C.
Early the crowds began to gather on the streets this morning despite the threatening aspect of the leaden skies. The blue and brass of the militia, the insignia of civil bodies, the gay uniforms of independent military organizations, the holiday attire of the sightseers mingled to make a panorama that was a composite moving picture of glad and gay Americanism. At noon it was easy to perceive that Washington had gathered the largest population in its history. As the crowd was larger, so the parade was more imposing than that which has ever marked the inauguration of a President of the United States.
"Again Inaugurated. Mr. McKinley Takes Oath a Second Time." The Evening Star (Washington, D. C.). March 4, 1901. Page 1.
Paul Laurence Dunbar lived in Washington at the time with his wife Alice and mother Matilda. His first biographer tells a humorous anecdote about how Paul was invited to ride a horse in McKinley's inaugural parade.
On March 1st, 1901, Mr. Dunbar received a parchment appointing him as aid with the rank of colonel in the Inaugural Parade of President McKinley.
"When the document was brought to me, I refused positively to appear in the parade, as I did not consider myself a sufficiently good horseman. So I sent the gentleman away with that answer, but as soon as he was out of the house, my wife and mother made siege upon me, and compelled me to run after him. I remember the occasion well, how I ran down my front steps in housejacket and slippers and calling to my late visitor, told him that I had changed my mind, perforce."
The Life and Works of Paul Laurence Dunbar, by Lida Keck Wiggins. J. L. Nichols & Company (Naperville, Illinois). 1907. Pages 94 - 95.
The document Paul mentioned is now at the Ohio History Connection in Columbus, and on display at the Dunbar House in Dayton is a military sword and scabbard he was issued for the parade.
Two of Matilda's grandchildren in Chicago mentioned the inauguration in their letters to her, as did her daughter-in-law in Chicago and sister in Dayton.
I am sorry I cannot be in Washington to see the inaugural procession, but never mind I will be with you this vacation and we will have one good time together.
Ethel Murphy to Matilda Dunbar, February 28, 1901. Paul Laurence Dunbar Papers, Ohio History Connection (Microfilm edition, Roll 2).
I received your letter and am glad you enjoyed the inauguration procession. I know Uncle Paul looked like the gallant colored soldier who fought for Uncle Sam. And I know Aunt Alice looked fine. Tell Uncle Paul he will have to go to war if he don't watch out.
Robert Murphy, Jr., to Matilda Dunbar, March 16, 1901. Paul Laurence Dunbar Papers, Ohio History Connection (Microfilm edition, Roll 2).
Ma, I know you are busy preparing for inauguration. And I know too, it will be a sight to do your eyes good. Write me all about it.
Electra "Leck" Murphy to Matilda Dunbar, February 26, 1901. Paul Laurence Dunbar Papers, Ohio History Connection (Microfilm edition, Roll 2).
How are Paul and Alice? How did you enjoy the inauguration?
Rebbecca Voss to Matilda Dunbar, March 7, 1901. Paul Laurence Dunbar Papers, Ohio History Connection (Microfilm edition, Roll 2).