History Daily — America’s First National Christmas Tree

Episode 1276 | December 24, 2025
Host: Lindsay Graham

Overview

In this festive episode, Lindsay Graham transports listeners to the origins and evolution of an enduring American tradition: the National Christmas Tree lighting ceremony in Washington, D.C. The story begins with the very first tree in 1923 and traces the ceremony’s growing importance through the decades, especially during wartime and as a symbol of national unity and hope.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

The First National Christmas Tree — 1923

• Security and Occasion Setting ([00:39–01:40])
  The episode opens on a chilly Christmas Eve, 1923, with Secret Service agent Richard Jervis nervously surveying the crowd at the Ellipse. President Calvin Coolidge, his family, and thousands of citizens await the lighting of a 50-foot fir from Vermont, symbolizing a hopeful national celebration after years of war and pandemic.

  “As the colorful bulbs and electric candles come to life, there’s only joy to be seen in the people’s faces. ... Even Richard Jervis has to smile.” — Lindsay Graham (01:15)

• Origins & Motivations ([06:58–11:43])
  The drive for a public Christmas tree is led by Lucretia Walker Hardy, acting director of D.C.’s community center department, who wishes to lift national spirits after World War I and the devastating flu. The Society for Electrical Development joins in, hoping to popularize electric Christmas lights.

  After initial resistance from the White House (First Lady Grace Coolidge’s own event takes priority), the tree is moved from the White House lawn to the Ellipse—a compromise facilitated by political pressure and industry interests.

  “There has been a Christmas tree in the White House ever since 1889, but it’s always been part of the private celebrations.... Lucretia wonders now, though, if it’s time for President Calvin Coolidge to make more of a statement.” — Lindsay Graham (07:40)

• Symbolism of the First Lighting ([02:00, 10:45])
  President Coolidge’s participation and the display of electric lights transform the celebration from private to public and technological marvel. The event signals new beginnings and American resilience.

The Tree Through Troubled Times — 1941

• Wartime Ceremony ([15:02–19:16])
  On December 24, 1941, in the shadow of Pearl Harbor, President Franklin D. Roosevelt decides the tradition must go on. British Prime Minister Winston Churchill, visiting for war talks, joins Roosevelt, making the occasion especially poignant.

  Roosevelt insists:

  “Observing Christmas during wartime is just as important as it is in peace, because hope shines through the darkness and will lead them on to happier times.” — Lindsay Graham (16:14)

  Churchill addresses Americans:

  “Christmas should be an evening of happiness in a world of storm.” — Winston Churchill (18:00)

  The segment highlights how the tree becomes a symbol of unity, hope, and international alliances, even when the world faces darkness.

Tradition Grows: The Pageant of Peace — 1954

• Renewal and Expansion ([21:27–24:03])
  By the 1950s, the ceremony’s allure wanes, but President Eisenhower, inspired by a local proposal, revives and expands it into the Pageant of Peace. The Ellipse transforms into a festive site with trees for every state, snow, petting zoos, and a live nativity.

  “A sheep riding a motorcycle is something else.” — Lindsay Graham, on some of the nativity sheep escaping into the city and being returned by police (22:37)

  Eisenhower addresses the nation, promoting peace and goodwill, and the lighting is now broadcast nationally and internationally. The tradition continues to evolve, reflecting America’s shifting identity and priorities.

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• On Security and Joy

  “This entire event is a security nightmare, but at least Coolidge won’t be making a speech afterwards. If everything goes well, he can get the President back… in only a few minutes.” — Lindsay Graham (00:52)

• On the Societal Need for the Ceremony

  “She thinks a public display of Christmas spirit is just what the country needs.” — Lindsay Graham, on Lucretia Hardy (07:10)

• Winston Churchill’s Message to America (Wartime 1941)

  “Christmas should be an evening of happiness in a world of storm.” — Churchill (18:00)

• On the Pageant of Peace and Escapist Humor

  “He wishes he could have witnessed that for himself. He’s seen plenty in his long career, but a sheep riding a motorcycle is something else.” — Lindsay Graham (22:37)

Timestamps for Major Segments

• 1923 Christmas Eve & First Lighting: 00:39–06:58, 10:45–11:43
• Origins & Preparations for First Tree: 06:58–11:43
• Wartime Tree Lighting & Winston Churchill's Visit: 15:02–19:16
• 1954 Pageant of Peace & Lighthearted Stories: 21:27–24:03

Conclusion & Legacy

By weaving together personal motivations, political calculations, and the evolving meaning of public rituals, the episode reveals how the National Christmas Tree lighting became a mirror of America’s history. It has continuously adapted—from a symbol of hope after war and pandemic, to a beacon of unity during global conflict, and finally to a show of peace and festivity for the entire nation.

For listeners seeking a concise but thorough narrative blending historical context, personal stories, and contemporary echoes, this episode is an engaging holiday listen.