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=Inauguration of Jefferson Davis=

The Congress of Delegates from the seceding States met at Montgomery, Alabama, on February 4, 1861, and prepared a Provisional Constitution of the new Confederacy.  This Constitution was discussed in detail, and was adopted on the 8th.  On the next day, February 9, an election was held for the selection of Chief Executive Officers, Jefferson Davis, born in Kentucky, but a resident of Mississippi, being elected President, and Alexander H. Stephens, of Georgia, Vice President.  While these important events were transpiring Mr. Davis was at his home, Briarfield, in Mississippi.  It was his preference to take active service in the field, but he bowed to the will of his people, and set out for Montgomery to take the oath of office, and assume the tremendous responsibilities to which he had been assigned in the great drama about to be enacted.  On his way to Montgomery he passed through Jackson, Grand Junction, Chattanooga, West Point and Opelika.  At every principal station along the route he was met by thousands of his enthusiastic fellow-countrymen, clamoring, for a speech.  During the trip he delivered about twenty-five short speeches, and his reception at Montgomery was an ovation.  Eight miles from the capital he was met by a large body of distinguished citizens, and amid the huzzas of thousands and the booming of cannon he entered the city.

From the balcony of the Exchange Hotel he addressed, shortly after his arrival, the immense throng that filled the streets.  February 18th had been chosen for the day of the inauguration, and as the time drew near the excitement increased.  The ceremony was carried out with all the solemnity and ceremony that could be thrown about it.  The military display was a beautiful one, and the martial maneuvers of the troops seemed to portend a victorious issue.  A platform was erected in front of the portico of the State House, and standing with uplifted hand on this eminence, while all the approaches were filled with vast crowds of people, Jefferson Davis took the oath of office.

As the hour of noon approached an immense procession was formed, and to the music of fife, drum, and artillery it moved toward the Capitol building.  On the platform awaiting the arrival of Mr. Davis were the members of Congress, the President of that body, the Governor of Alabama and Committees, and a number of other distinguished persons.  Round after round of cheers greeted Mr. Davis.  After being seated on the platform the Rev. Dr. Manley arose and offered an impressive prayer.  President Davis arose and read his inaugural address; then turning, he placed one hand upon the Bible, and with the other uplifted, he listened to the oath.  His face was upturned and reverential in expression.  At the conclusion of the oath, in solemn, earnest voice, he exclaimed:  “So help me God!” He lowered his head in tears, and hundreds wept as they viewed the solemn scene.  Thus was officially launched upon a tempestuous sea the Confederate Ship of State.