President’s Day: A Celebration of the U.S. Presidents

Every third Monday in February, Americans celebrate President’s Day, a federal holiday dedicated to honoring the nation’s past leaders. But, while the holiday has evolved into a day filled with mattress sales and car discounts, it’s worth taking a moment to reflect on the true significance of the day – and, perhaps, have a few laughs along the way.

President’s Day, as we know it today, was originally established to honor George Washington, the first President of the United States. Washington’s birthday, February 22nd on the Gregorian calendar, was initially recognized as a national holiday in 1885. However, when the Uniform Monday Holiday Act was passed in 1968, President’s Day was moved to the third Monday in February, ensuring a long weekend for American workers.

While it was originally intended to celebrate Washington, the holiday now serves as a day to honor all U.S. presidents – whether they’re remembered for their legendary accomplishments or, let’s say, their less-than-stellar moments in office. The result? A holiday that doesn’t necessarily focus on one person but rather celebrates the quirky, colorful and sometimes downright strange history of the presidency itself.

Rumors and Facts

For instance, did you know that President William Howard Taft, the 27th president, was rumored to have gotten stuck in the White House bathtub? At 330 pounds, Taft’s love of food was legendary, and the story goes that he was once unable to extricate himself. Although this was only rumor, not fact, President Taft did indeed need to travel to Panama to inspect progress on the Panama Canal. Prior to the trip, he had a bathtub custom built and installed for himself on the USS North Carolina. The tub measured seven feet, one inch long, 41 inches wide and weighed one ton. Taft’s “bathroom troubles” may not make for the most glamorous legacy, but they certainly add a touch of humor to the history books. 

Or, consider President Andrew Jackson, the seventh president, who had a bit of a temper. It’s a fact that Jackson once had a duel with Charles Dickinson, a man who had insulted him. While the deadly duel two years earlier between Aaron Burr and Alexander Hamilton is the most famous in American history, Jackson was a frequent dueler among the prominent politicians of the dueling age, which lasted up until the Civil War era. The future president survived Dickinson’s first shot, but Jackson’s pistol jammed. In a breach of the code duello, Jackson re-cocked his pistol and killed Dickinson. Jackson’s toughness became the stuff of legend – though, let’s be honest, most people would have stayed away from any duel if they knew it involved such bad manners and poor judgment.

Presidents and Their…Unique Interests

President’s Day also provides the perfect opportunity to explore some of the more unusual hobbies and quirks of U.S. presidents. For example, President John Quincy Adams had a rather interesting way of starting his day – he enjoyed an early morning swim in the Potomac River, often without his clothes. Talk about a daring start to the day! His morning routine must have given new meaning to the idea of “early risers” and “streaking” in the 19th century.

President Calvin Coolidge enjoyed horseback riding for exercise, and when the secret service asked him to give up his rides, in the interest of safety and time, he acquired an electric horse for the White House. He would ride it up to two to three times a day, and the mechanical horse had two variable gaits, “trot” and “gallop.”

President’s Day Today: From Sales to Celebrations

While the holiday may have started with a more somber and serious tone, today, President’s Day is largely recognized as a time for great deals and sales. Americans flock to stores, both physical and online, to snag everything from appliances to clothes, and yes, even mattresses.

But, don’t let the commercialization fool you. Despite the mattress ads and car dealership promotions, President’s Day is still a time for many to reflect on the history and legacy of America’s leaders. It’s a reminder that, while the presidency may have its ups and downs, it also provides some hilarious and eccentric stories that make this holiday anything but boring.

A Presidential Toast

So, this President’s Day, whether you’re basking in the glow of a mattress sale or reading up on the more humorous aspects of U.S. history, take a moment to raise a glass to the oddities, mishaps and triumphs of our presidents. They may not always be perfect, but they sure make for an entertaining bunch. In the end, it’s not just about commemorating the great leaders; it’s about enjoying the ride through American history – flaws, fun facts and all. Happy President’s Day!

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