Lucy Webb Hayes

Lucy Webb Hayes (1831-1889) was the wife of President Rutherford B. Hayes and one of the most popular First Ladies of the nineteenth century. Deeply religious, she despised slavery and converted her husband to the abolitionist cause. Later, it was his successful career in the Union Army that led him into politics.

Once in the White House, Lucy Hayes was considered the most popular hostess since Dolley Madison. She was a strong supporter of Temperance, and no alcohol was served in the White House during the Hayes administration, prompting the press to dub her "Lemonade Lucy." She also introduced the custom of having children roll Easter eggs on the White House lawn.

Upon her death, flags across the United States were lowered to half-mast in honor of the "most idolized woman in America."