The Founding of the ASPCA on April 10, 1866, and Its Ties to U.S. Presidencies
Early newspaper piece about the ASPCA.
On April 10, 1866, a pivotal moment in American history unfolded: the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) was established. This groundbreaking organization, founded by Henry Bergh, marked the beginning of a formalized movement to protect animals from abuse and neglect in the United States. But what does this have to do with U.S. presidents? From Ulysses S. Grant’s personal passion for horses to later presidents who championed animal welfare, the ASPCA’s legacy intertwines with presidential history in fascinating ways. In this blog post, we’ll explore the ASPCA’s founding, its historical context, and how it connects to the White House.
The Birth of the ASPCA: April 10, 1866
The ASPCA was born out of a growing 19th-century awareness of animal suffering. Henry Bergh, a wealthy New Yorker inspired by his travels in Europe and the work of the Royal SPCA in England, lobbied for its creation. On April 10, 1866, the New York State Legislature granted the ASPCA its charter, giving it legal authority to enforce anti-cruelty laws—a first in the Western Hemisphere. Just nine days later, on April 19, New York passed its first anti-cruelty law, setting a precedent for animal protection nationwide.
At the time, the U.S. was healing from the Civil War, and societal values were shifting. The ASPCA’s founding reflected a broader push for compassion and reform—values that would soon resonate with leaders in the White House.
Ulysses S. Grant: The Horse-Loving President
One of the most direct ties between the ASPCA and a U.S. president comes through Ulysses S. Grant, who took office in 1869, just three years after the ASPCA’s founding. Grant, a Civil War hero and the 18th president, was renowned for his deep affection for animals, especially horses. Historical accounts describe him as an exceptional horseman who treated his steeds with care and bristled at any sign of mistreatment. While Grant didn’t found the ASPCA or directly influence its creation, his personal stance against animal cruelty aligned with the organization’s mission.
During his presidency (1869–1877), Grant’s love for horses was well-documented. He once fined a man for whipping a horse and reportedly said, “I will not have my horses abused.” This sentiment mirrored the ASPCA’s early efforts to penalize animal cruelty, suggesting a cultural synergy between Grant’s values and the organization’s goals. Though no formal collaboration existed, Grant’s tenure coincided with the ASPCA’s formative years, amplifying awareness of animal welfare in America.
Beyond Grant: Presidential Connections to Animal Welfare
The ASPCA’s influence rippled through subsequent presidencies, often indirectly. Theodore Roosevelt, president from 1901 to 1909, was another animal enthusiast whose love for nature and wildlife complemented the ASPCA’s mission. Known for his conservation efforts—like establishing national parks—Roosevelt also kept a menagerie of pets at the White House, from dogs to a bear cub. His administration’s focus on protecting the natural world paralleled the ASPCA’s advocacy for individual animals.
Fast forward to the 20th century, and presidents like Lyndon B. Johnson (1963–1969) brought animal welfare into the spotlight. Johnson signed the Animal Welfare Act of 1966—exactly 100 years after the ASPCA’s founding—establishing federal standards for the treatment of animals in research, transport, and exhibition. This landmark legislation built on the ASPCA’s century-long fight, showing how its early work laid the groundwork for presidential action.
Why April 10 Matters in Presidential and Animal History
April 10, 1866, isn’t just the ASPCA’s birthday—it’s a date that symbolizes a shift in American values, one that presidents like Grant, Roosevelt, and Johnson reflected in their own ways. Whether through personal affinity for animals or legislative support, these leaders helped elevate the cause the ASPCA pioneered. Today, the organization remains a powerhouse in animal rescue and advocacy, its roots traceable to that spring day over 150 years ago.
Conclusion: A Legacy of Compassion
The founding of the ASPCA on April 10, 1866, was more than a standalone event—it was a spark that ignited a movement, one that found echoes in the White House. From Ulysses S. Grant’s horse-whispering days to modern laws shaped by presidential pens, the ASPCA’s story is woven into America’s presidential tapestry. Next time you think of animal welfare, remember April 10—and the leaders who, knowingly or not, carried its torch.
