Post Reports Retropolis: The presidential inauguration that made everyone sick
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Jan 18, 2025 Petula Dvorak, a columnist for Retropolis at the Washington Post, delves into the bizarre events surrounding James Buchanan's 1857 inauguration. She uncovers the mystery of a gastrointestinal outbreak known as the National Hotel Disease, which struck Buchanan and over 400 guests. Dvorak explores the eerie conspiracy theories circling the illness and reflects on how it influenced presidential leadership. The tale also dives into the hotel's storied past, hinting at future connections to infamous historical figures like John Wilkes Booth.
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Inaugural Parade and Illness
- The 1857 inaugural parade for James Buchanan featured new floats, including the Goddess of Liberty and the USS Constitution.
- Buchanan, however, hid his illness during the celebration.
Suspicions of Poisoning
- The National Hotel Disease affected hundreds of inauguration attendees, causing suspicion of poisoning.
- Given the divided nation and Buchanan's controversial stance on slavery, an assassination attempt wasn't improbable.
Buchanan's Return to the National Hotel
- Despite getting sick at the National Hotel in January 1857, Buchanan returned for his inauguration.
- He believed the hotel soup was responsible but only ate crackers during his second stay.