The presidential inaugural ball from the time of George Washington to the present, has been a very important part of the inaugural celebrations. Attended by politicians, foreign diplomats, military and civilian members of society, these quadrennial events can be compared to the political festivities in the courts of Europe. Dancing is a central focus point as the entertainment at these balls. This investigation centered on the social dances performed at the inaugural balls of the eight Ohio United States presidents, with the intention of revealing the dances on the dance program and the music that was played for them. The presidents included in this study are William Henry Harrison, Ulysses S. Grant, Rutherford B. Hayes, James A. Garfield, Benjamin Harrison, William McKinley, William Howard Taft, and Warren G. Harding.
This research was conducted using historical methodology, compiling information from newspaper articles and presidential memorabilia from the time of each president's inauguration. In addition, a personal interview with an authority on 19th century dance, was a valuable resource.
The investigation reveals most of the dances and the accompanying music performed by the participants at these inaugural balls. It also provides historical background information, insights into the inaugural events, and special features of the inaugural balls.