Fun Facts About Rutherford B. Hayes

Rutherford B. Hayes, the 19th president of the United States, served from 1877 to 1881 and is known for ending Reconstruction after a controversial election. This Ohio native had a life full of interesting and unexpected details that kids will find delightful. Here are ten kid-friendly fun facts about Rutherford B. Hayes!

Scroll down for the full list, or check out our Rutherford B. Hayes Activity Book -- 24 pages of fun and educational activities for kids ages 5-10.

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President Rutherford B. Hayes

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Fun Facts About Rutherford B. Hayes

  1. He Won a Super Close Election
    Hayes became president by just one electoral vote in 1876, in a race so close it took months to decide—talk about a nail-biter!
  2. He Loved Music and Singing
    Hayes enjoyed singing and playing music with his family, often hosting sing-alongs at the White House that kids might imagine joining!
  3. He Had a Pet Goat Named Grinnell
    Hayes kept a goat named Grinnell for his children to play with, and it once escaped, causing a funny chase around the White House lawn!
  4. He Banned Alcohol at the White House
    Hayes and his wife, Lucy, didn’t allow alcohol, earning her the nickname “Lemonade Lucy”—a quirky rule kids might find surprising!
  5. He Was Injured in the Civil War
    Hayes was wounded five times while serving as a Union soldier, showing his bravery before becoming president!
  6. He Loved Sending Christmas Cards
    Hayes started the tradition of sending Christmas cards from the White House, a fun custom that kids might enjoy making today!
  7. He Had Eight Kids
    Hayes and Lucy had eight children, and their big family filled the White House with laughter and energy!
  8. He Supported Education for All
    Hayes believed everyone should go to school, and he helped start colleges, inspiring kids to value learning.
  9. He Retired to a Spiegel Grove
    After his presidency, Hayes moved to a beautiful home called Spiegel Grove in Ohio, where he spent his days gardening and relaxing.
  10. He Lived to See the Telephone Invented
    Hayes was president when the telephone was new, and he even had one installed at the White House—imagine his first call!
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