Two blueprints prepared for the presidential inauguration on January 20, 1949: a large 38 x 24 blueprint by Architect of the Capitol David Lynn, entitled "General Plan, 1949 Presidential Inauguration, East Plaza, United States Capitol," with a latest revision date of November 24, 1948, showing the layout of the area in front of the Capitol, to include the "President's Stand," "Band Stand," "Press," "Electors," and more; and a 30 x 18 blueprint "change drawing" by Architect of the Capitol David Lynn, entitled "General Area, Revised Seating Plan, 1949 Presidential Inauguration," with a latest revision date of November 16, 1948, featuring a close-up detail of the seating arrangements, to include the "Band Stand," "Press," "Radio," and general seating sections. In overall fine condition. Consignor notes that these originate from the estate of John W. Snyder, Truman's close personal friend who served in his cabinet as secretary of the Treasury.
President Harry S. Truman's second inauguration was broadcast on radio at home and abroad through the Voice of America, and was also the first to be televised; by some estimates, it therefore had more witnesses than all previous inaugurations combined. Truman's inaugural address, known as the 'Four Point Speech,' focused on American foreign policy in the aftermath of World War II and nascent stages of the Cold War: he promised to 'give unfaltering support to the United Nations,' 'continue our programs for world economic recovery,' 'strengthen freedom-loving nations against the dangers of aggression,' and 'embark on a bold new program for making the benefits of our scientific advances and industrial progress available for the improvement and growth of underdeveloped areas.'
