NARRATOR: The Easter Egg Roll--

a White House tradition that dates back over 100 years.

But how did the president's lawn come

to host this egg racing ritual?

History explains the Easter Egg Roll.

Children in Washington, DC, first

started racing Easter eggs in the 1870s,

but on the grounds of the US Capitol.

As these crowds grew, the Capitol's landscaping suffered,

so President Grant banned the use of federal land

for Easter celebrations.

But by 1878, there was a new president in town.

Just before Easter, a group of eager egg rollers

approached President Hayes during his daily walk.

They asked if he would open the Capitol

grounds for the holiday.

Hayes did them one better--

he invited them to the White House

for the first official Easter Egg Roll.

Presidents have let the eggs run wild ever since--

even if it does damage the lawn a little.