Inaugurations

Opera singer Lawrence Tibbett participated in the inaugural events held January 1949.

Conductor Lieutenant Colonel George S. Howard directed the United States Air Force Band during a performance at the Inaugural Gala held January 19, 1949.

Actress Margaret O'Brien performed at the Inaugural Gala held January 19, 1949.

Comedic actress Joan Davis performed at the Inaugural Gala held January 19, 1949. This photo is a still from the RKO motion picture "George White's Scandals."

Conductor Captain Hugh Curry directed the United States Army Band during a performance at the Inaugural Gala held January 19, 1949.

Conductor Phil Spitalny directed the Hour of Charm All-Girl Orchestra during a performance at the Inaugural Gala held January 19, 1949.

Singer and actor George Jessel served as a Master of Ceremonies and performed three songs at the Inaugural Gala held January 19, 1949.

Singer Phil Regan served as a Master of Ceremony and performed at the Inaugural Gala held January 19, 1949.

Singer Jane Powell performed "Love Is Where You Find It" and "Buttons and Bows" at the Inaugural Gala held January 19, 1949.

Melvin D. Hildreth, general chairman of the 1949 Inaugural Committee (left), accepts a new Packard automobile from Sam Broden (right), zone manager of the Packard Motor Company. The car was loaned to the Inaugural Committee by the Packard Motor Company as a person vehicle for Mr. Hildreth.