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The United States Marine Band: Origins & Traditions

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  • President and Mrs. Adams Invite the United States Marine Band

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    Invitation to the reception held by President John Adams and First Lady Abigail Adams in the White House on New Year’s Day, 1801. The printed blank is addressed to General Theodorus Bailey and his wife of New York. Bailey was a member of the Sixth Congress (March 1799-March 1801), which moved with President Adams to Washington, D.C. Adams' first New Year’s reception in the White House was to start a custom that lasted 131 years, until 1932.

    White House Collection\White House Historical Association

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  • Presidents' Passion for Music - Photo 1

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    President Abraham Lincoln reviews the New York volunteer troops on Independence Day, 1861, before the White House.

    The White House Collection

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  • Thomas Jefferson, White House Collection

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    President John Adams gave the band its charter, but President Thomas Jefferson gave the band its identity. An astute musician himself, Jefferson called the band "The President's Own."

    White House Historical Association/White House Collection

The Marine Band, the first musical ensemble to perform at the White House, has provided a continual opportunity for presidents to enjoy music. President Thomas Jefferson, an avid violinist, called music his "favorite passion." President James Madison invited the band to perform at the first inaugural ball. President Abraham Lincoln found the band's concerts a lift from the gloom of the Civil War. Music for social events, ceremonies, and state entertainment has played an important part in the history of the President's House from its earliest days.

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