American Freedom Museum: Fun Fact Friday

From the desk of Jan Hommel, Museum Director:

Q: Which President was given a speeding ticket for riding his horse too fast down a Washington street?

A: Ulysses S. Grant. The former general loved to ride – and he loved to ride fast. Grant brought his favorite horses with him to the White House and enjoyed taking a spin in the capital city. On one particular night, according to a popular story, Grant’s horse-drawn buggy came careening down a street right past a police officer. The officer caught up to the reckless driver and cited him for excessive speed. But as he was writing the ticket, it dawned on him that the violator was none other than the president. Despite the officer’s apologies, according to the story, Grant insisted on paying the fine. (Smithsonian Presidential Trivia)