The Origins of the White House Easter Egg Roll: A Tradition Began by Rutherford Hayes

For over a century, the iconic Easter Egg Roll event at the White House has been a favorite tradition, gathering families and guests from across the nation. But have you ever wondered about the roots of this delightful celebration? The first Easter Egg Roll at the White House wasn’t merely a spontaneous occurrence; it was carefully planned and executed by one of the nation's earliest presidents, Rutherford Hayes. This article delves into the history of the egg roll and the man who initiated this cherished tradition.

A Presidential Vision

In the late 19th century, the White House was a comparatively young and intimate space compared to today. It was President Rutherford Hayes who first envisioned the potential for a grand Easter event, converting the premises into a play area for children and families. Historians credit Hayes for the idea, inspired perhaps by the numerous public festivities and parades occurring in Washington, D.C. during the Easter season.

The Very First Easter Egg Roll in 1878

On the Sunday following Easter, April 5, 1878, the nation's capital was abuzz with excitement as thousands of visitors descended on the White House for this inaugural egg roll. The event was well-publicized, with newspapers announcing the names of celebrated guests, including members of the President's family, Washington dignitaries, and even some of the President's children, who were only 3 to 9 years old at the time.

That evening, Mr. Hayes and his wife, Lucy, welcomed the crowd, escorted by members of the Secret Service. The event was interspersed with musical entertainment, refreshments, and, of course, the egg rolls, which featured hard-boiled eggs—cracked and decorated with easily removable colors. Children brought their own boiled dyed eggs and raced them down the east lawn, using long wooden paddles to propel the eggs.

Legacy of the Tradition

The success of President Hayes' Easter egg rolls quickly became a trademark of his presidency. For the next 16 years, each subsequent president consistently followed the precedent set by Hayes, ensuring the event remained a key tradition during the Easter season. However, the event has taken various forms over the years. In 1880, President James Garfield included some distortion control in the formats, and again in 1893, President Chester Arthur allowed the event to include some children from poor and working-class backgrounds.

At the close of the 19th century and the dawn of the 20th, the event saw a significant transformation. By 1897, it had been moved from the east lawn to the White House's north del, and in 1910, the event featured a track with hand-painted wooden lettering, marking "start" and "end." President William Howard Taft played an integral role in this evolution, ensuring the event was more inclusive and enjoyable for all attendees.

Current Celebrations and Future Prospects

With the years, the event continues to expand and grow, providing families with cherished opportunities to participate in this beloved tradition. The Easter Victory Garden, introduced during World War II as a salute to agricultural contributions, was eventually phased out. However, the White House Easter Egg Rolls remain a central part of America's presidential legacy.

Today, the egg rolls continue to be a favorite of both young and old. Visitors are encouraged to paint eggs and participate in an egg roll race, while the parade through the streets of Washington, D.C., offers a spectacle of joys and excitement. These festivities not only maintain the spirit of the original event but also instill a sense of unity and community among all participants.

Insider Tips for Attending the White House Easter Egg Roll

For those eager to enjoy the Easter Egg Roll, here are a few tips:

Plan your visit in advance, as tickets are requested weeks in advance. There's usually a limit of four people per ticket, and adult supervision is mandatory.Wear comfortable shoes and clothing, as the north del lawn can be somewhat bumpy and a camera to capture the special moments and bring plenty of water to stay early to secure a good spot and avoid the lines for the egg paintings and races.

The White House Easter Egg Roll stands as a testament to the tradition of bringing joy, unity, and community together under the presidential banner. And it all began more than 140 years ago with a simple, yet significant, act by Rutherford Hayes. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer, the celebration promises to continue inspiring generations to come.