From Handwritten Notes to Mass Mailings: The Evolution of White House Christmas Cards
WASHINGTON, D.C. — The White House Christmas card, a cherished tradition that intertwines presidential history with the holiday season, has evolved dramatically since its earliest days. What began as a simple, handwritten greeting has grown into a massive annual undertaking, reflecting both the personalities of presidents and the expanding reach of the American presidency.
Historians trace the unofficial origins of White House Christmas cards to the late 1800s, when presidents likely sent modest holiday notes to a select few. However, it was President Calvin Coolidge who formalized the practice in 1927 with what is widely recognized as the first official Christmas card. Coolidge’s succinct message, “Season’s Greetings,” penned in his distinctive cursive, was published by major newspapers nationwide, signaling the start of a tradition that would grow in scale and significance.
Over the decades, the cards have mirrored the changing nature of presidential communication. Presidents Dwight Eisenhower and Richard Nixon expanded the recipient list, including Cabinet members, Congress, and U.S. ambassadors abroad. Nixon’s administration marked a turning point by mass printing the cards for the first time, sending them to approximately 40,000 recipients—a scale unimaginable during Coolidge’s era.
Today, the production and distribution of White House Christmas cards are managed by the Republican and Democratic national parties, ensuring that the lists include a broad spectrum of political, diplomatic, and public figures. The cards themselves often carry subtle political messages or themes reflective of the sitting president’s priorities and style.
First Lady Melania Trump’s 2025 White House Christmas decorations, themed “Home Is Where The Heart Is,” exemplify how the holiday spirit is woven into the fabric of the presidency. The annual decorations and cards together offer a glimpse into the personal touch presidents and first ladies bring to the official residence during the holiday season.
For those interested in the broader context of presidential traditions and holiday observances, resources such as the White House Historical Association provide detailed insights. Additionally, the National Archives holds extensive records on presidential communications, including holiday greetings.
The tradition of the White House Christmas card stands as a testament to the enduring nature of presidential customs, bridging generations with messages of goodwill and unity. As the cards continue to evolve, they remain a unique symbol of the presidency’s connection to the American people during the holiday season.
For more on presidential holiday traditions and official communications, visit the USA.gov Presidents page and explore the Library of Congress presidential collections.
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