(Tuesday, March 8, 1864, at about 9:30 p.m.; during the American Civil War) — Union General Ulysses S. Grant arrived in Washington today unrecognized, but word quickly spread that he was in town, and he was warmly received at Willard’s Hotel.

Grant then proceeded to the weekly reception at the White House, where he met President Abraham Lincoln for the first time. In the East Room, Grant stood on a sofa so the cheering guests could see him.