(Thursday, April 30, 1789, at about 1:00 p.m. local time) — George Washington, 57, was inaugurated as the first President of the United States today at Federal Hall in New York City, then the nation’s capitol, with Chancellor Robert Livingston, the highest judicial officer in the state of New York, administrating the oath of office.

Although his term was scheduled to start on March 4, 1789, Washington did not become President until today because Congress could not initially convene and achieve a quorum.

Washington, who had been unanimously elected President in the 1788-79 general election, took the oath nine days after his Vice President, John Adams, took the oath of office at Federal Hall. Adams was elected VPOTUS over John Jay in the Electoral College by 34 to 9 votes.

Video: 'George Washington First Inaugural Address April 30th, 1789'