PRESIDENT COOLIDGE SIGNS E.O. FOR ANNUAL EASTER EGG ROLL
Washington, D.C. (JFK+50) On March 29, 1926, The Evening Star reports that "the rear grounds of the White House will be turned over to the children of Washington next Monday for the annual Easter egg-rolling festival."
President Calvin Coolidge signed an executive order today authorizing the opening of the south grounds gates at 9 a.m. A concert will be offered to the general public between 3:30 and 5:00. Prior to that time frame, only parents with children under 10 years of age will be admitted.
JFK+50 NOTE
The White House Easter Egg Rolling event officially began in 1878 with President Rutherford B. Hayes telling guards to allow children to enter the grounds.
Music was added to the event in 1889 with the performance of the United States Marine Corps band. Today interested parents must enter a lottery to get a chance at having their children attending the egg roll.
SOURCES
"The White House Easter Egg Roll," The White House, www.whitehouse.gov/
"White House Lawn Easter Egg Rolling Will Be Monday," The Evening Star, Washington, D.C., March 29, 1926, Chronicling America, Library of Congress, www.loc.gov/
