Adams occupied this Philadelphia mansion from March 1797 to May 1800.
Inauguration
Adams was sworn into office as the nation's second president on March 4, 1797. He followed Washington's lead in using the presidency to exemplify republican values and civic virtue, and his service was free of scandal.[187] Adams spent much of his term at his Massachusetts home Peacefield, preferring the quietness of domestic life to business at the capital. He ignored the political patronage and office-seeking which other officeholders utilized.[188]
Historians debate the wisdom of his decision to retain Washington's cabinet in light of the cabinet's loyalty to Hamilton. The "Hamiltonians who surround him," Jefferson soon remarked, "are only a little less hostile to him than to me."[189] Although aware of Hamilton's influence, Adams was convinced that their retention ensured a smoother succession.[190] Adams maintained the economic programs of Hamilton, who regularly consulted with key cabinet members, especially the powerful Treasury Secretary, Oliver Wolcott Jr.[191] Adams was in other respects quite independent of his cabinet, often making decisions despite opposition from it.[192] Hamilton had grown accustomed to being regularly consulted by Washington. 