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When did the official White House Easter Bunny first appear at the Easter Egg Roll?

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Raphael: Resurrection of Christ — Easter *Resurrection of Christ*, oil on wood panel by Raphael, 1499–1502; in the Museu de Arte de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil. 52 × 44 cm.

The official White House Easter Bunny made its first appearance at the annual Easter Egg Roll in 1969. During this event, a staffer for First Lady Pat Nixon wore a giant white rabbit costume to entertain the children in attendance.1

While the tradition of the Easter Egg Roll at the White House dates back to 1878 under President Rutherford B. Hayes, the presence of the official costumed character did not begin until nearly a century later. Prior to the introduction of the official mascot, some children participating in the festivities had occasionally dressed in their own bunny costumes or brought pet rabbits to the event.21