Hop on down to the third annual Eisenhower Easter Egg Roll, Saturday, April 4, from 1 to 2:30 p.m. at the Eisenhower Presidential Library, Museum and Boyhood Home. This event is free and open to the public and will feature an Easter egg hunt, games, face painting, Easter bunny photos, a scavenger hunt and more. The egg hunt will begin promptly at 1 p.m. when the siren sounds--so don't be late!
"The Eisenhower Easter Egg Roll is a great partnership between several fine Abilene organizations," said Karl Weissenbach, director. "We are pleased to host this community event each year and hope everyone enjoys exploring our various exhibits. Admission to the Museum is free all day."
"Due to last year's success, we have ordered 8,000 eggs to be distributed on the grounds. We look forward to another fun-filled egg hunt to start the afternoon festivities. Thanks to the staff at the Eisenhower Presidential Library for hosting this annual event. Remember to be there early!" adds Jane Foltz, director of the Abilene Parks and Recreation Department.
The Eisenhower Easter Egg Roll is modeled after the White House Easter Egg Roll that began in 1878. The Egg Roll is one of the oldest annual events in White House history, although the event was canceled occasionally during times of war and austerity. The Egg Roll resumed in 1953 after a 12-year hiatus when the Eisenhowers moved into the White House. Mamie Eisenhower desegregated the Egg Roll by inviting all children regardless of race to the event. Ike's grandchildren also participated in the Egg Roll when he was in office.
The Eisenhower Easter Egg Roll is produced in partnership with the Abilene Parks and Recreation Department, Eisenhower Foundation, and the Eisenhower Presidential Library, Museum and Boyhood Home. Other organizations volunteering their services for the activities include the Abilene Kid's Council and students from Abilene High School Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) and Student Council (StuCo).