Inaugurations

Chorus master Justin Lawrie led a group of singers gathered from choirs, colleges, and organizations of Washington, D.C. during a performance at the Inaugural Gala held January 19, 1949.

Conductor Hans Kindler directed the National Symphony Orchestra during a performance at the Inaugural Gala held January 19, 1949.

Conductor Major William F. Santelmann directed the United States Marine Band during a performance at the Inaugural Gala held January 19, 1949.

Opera singer Dorothy Maynor performed "Were You There When They Crucified My Lord" and "Alleluja" at the Inaugural Gala held January 19, 1949.

Opera singer Kay DeWitt performed at the Inaugural Gala held January 19, 1949.

Conductor Lieutenant Commander Charles Brendler directed the United States Navy Band during a performance at the Inaugural Gala held January 19, 1949.

Actor Phil Harris served as a Master of Ceremony and performed with actress Alice Faye at the Inaugural Gala held January 19, 1949.

Comedians Bud Abbott and Lou Costello performed at the Inaugural Gala held January 19, 1949. This photo was originally used to promote the Universal motion picture "Mexican Hayride."

Singer Gene Archer performed at the Inaugural Gala held January 19, 1949.

Singer and actress Lena Horne performed the song "Stormy Weather" at the Inaugural Gala held January 19, 1949.