Senate Resolution No. 2046

BY: Senator STEC

COMMEMORATING the 125th Anniversary of Theodore
Roosevelt's Night Ride to the Presidency

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to commend and
recognize those organizations which strive to preserve and promote
significant historical events, thereby ensuring that the rich heritage
of our State and Nation is shared with present and future generations;
and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in keeping with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
commemorate the 125th Anniversary of Theodore Roosevelt's Night Ride to
the Presidency, and recognizing its Planning Committee, along with the
many organizations collaborating in this effort, for their ongoing
mission to preserve history through educational programming and public
events; and

WHEREAS, The 125th Anniversary of Theodore Roosevelt's "Night Ride
to the Presidency" seeks to honor and commemorate this pivotal moment in
American history, when Roosevelt's journey from the Adirondacks to
Buffalo marked the beginning of his presidency; and

WHEREAS, Through educational programs, community events, lectures,
exhibitions, and cultural partnerships, the anniversary commemoration
will preserve and share the legacy of Roosevelt's leadership, his deep
connection to the Adirondacks, and the enduring impact of his presidency
on our nation and the world; and

WHEREAS, In the course of American history, there are certain
moments in our Nation's past which remain legendary for their
unparalleled impact on our region, New York State and our country; and

WHEREAS, Theodore Roosevelt, a native New Yorker, born on October
27, 1858, in New York City, distinguished himself through public service
as Assistant Secretary of the Navy, leader of the Rough Riders, Governor
of New York, and Vice President of the United States under President
William McKinley; and

WHEREAS, Roosevelt held a deep appreciation for the natural beauty
of the Adirondack Mountains, and in September 1901, while vacationing
with his family in the Adirondacks, he was drawn into one of the most
pivotal moments in American history; and

WHEREAS, On September 6, 1901, President William McKinley was shot
while attending the Pan-American Exposition in Buffalo, New York, and
Vice President Roosevelt was notified of the assassination attempt while
traveling in the region; and

WHEREAS, After initially traveling to Buffalo and being assured of
the President's expected recovery, Roosevelt returned to the
Adirondacks; however, on the night of September 12, 1901, upon receiving
urgent word that President McKinley's condition had worsened, he

immediately began his journey back to Buffalo, an arduous overnight trip
now known as the "Night Ride to the Presidency"; and

WHEREAS, During this journey, while in North Creek, New York,
Roosevelt received official notification that President McKinley had
died at 2:15 a.m. on September 14, 1901, and that he had thereby assumed
the Presidency of the United States; and

WHEREAS, Later that same day, at 3:31 p.m., Theodore Roosevelt was
sworn in as the 26th President of the United States at the Wilcox
residence in Buffalo, New York; and

WHEREAS, The Night Ride to the Presidency remains a powerful symbol
of leadership, duty, and the peaceful transition of power during a
moment of national crisis; and

WHEREAS, The 125th Anniversary of this historic event provides a
meaningful opportunity to reflect upon its significance and to recognize
the many organizations whose dedication ensures that this important
chapter in American history is preserved and commemorated through events
held throughout the year; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commemorate the 125th Anniversary of Theodore Roosevelt's Night Ride to
the Presidency; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the 125th Anniversary Planning Committee.