Episode 6: Ellis Island
As the 1904 presidential election results come in, Roosevelt wins by the largest popular vote margin in U.S. history. Mission accomplished.
Cortelyou and his family take a needed break, cruising the Mediterranean. On board, he reads Jack London’s just published adventure novel, The Sea Wolf - recommended by TR. Cortelyou’s son would rather follow his Boston Red Sox, and won’t stop talking about Cy Young’s first perfect game in the history of American-League Baseball.
The inauguration of Theodore Roosevelt in 1905 is a grand affair outside the US Capitol Building. Thousands watch as he reads the oath to the United States Constitution.
PRESIDENTIAL CABINET ROOM, WHITE HOUSE
Cortelyou assumes yet another seat in the Cabinet Room - Postmaster General. The others smile at his rotation around the table. It’s his third chair, and not his last. The White House Chief Stewart (African-American) also chimes in with banter and congratulations - further solidifying their relationship.
As Postmaster General, Cortelyou returns to the department where he once sorted mail. Now, he oversees it all. We follow him through the department’s inner workings - where he walks the floor, speaks directly to junior clerks, and listens. One of them, a bright and focused young man, draws his notice as he reminds him of himself, just eight years earlier.
In a meeting with congressional budget staff, Cortelyou proposes the use of automobiles to modernize mail transport. A senator protests: “But Congress has prohibited funding for automobiles.” Cortelyou’s reply is calm: “I’m not requesting automobiles. I’m requesting horseless wagons.” He gets what he needs.
That month, Alice Roosevelt, daughter of President Roosevelt, is married in a White House ceremony. Cortelyou, his wife and his 18-year-old daughter, Grace, attends the grand affair. A line of black carriages form down the White House driveway as dignitaries file in wearing their best.
Shortly after comes the news - a large earthquake has hit San Francisco. Fires rage, buildings crumble. Cortelyou telegraphs postal workers as they restore communications and mail routes. The postal service is more than mail at this time - it’s a lifeline.
Later that week, back at Sagamore Hill, Roosevelt and Cortelyou sit in the study full of animal trophy heads and elephant tusks. Over a drink, Roosevelt leans forward, elbows on knees. “You’ve worn many hats, Mr. Cortelyou. But this one fits especially well.” Cortelyou lifts his glass in acknowledgment. “I’ve always liked a well-fitting hat.” They sit in silence, reflecting on the grand moments in time - and watch the fire crackle.
Meanwhile, Edith Roosevelt prepares for her upcoming trip to the Panama Canal construction zone - an unprecedented journey for a First Lady. Joined by her daughter and Lilly Cortelyou, Edith speaks candidly about her anxieties, but also reveals a quiet determination to stand beside her husband in such a remote and challenging environment. Later that night at home, Lilly Cortelyou confides in her husband that she would be reluctant to go to Panama. “Malaria is everywhere, George. I pray they will be OK.”
WALLSTREET, NEW YORK CITY
Wall Street is jittery. The newspapers buzz with speculation and rumor. Credit is tightening, and whispers of risky banking schemes abound. Some customers start to quietly remove their money from the Knickerbocker Trust (Bank). Then more do. Then panic.