Description:

John F. Kennedy
Washington, DC, January 20, 1961
JFK's Assistants Inauguration Archive with Invitations, Personal Notes and Inaugural Plans. Ex. Helen Keyes
Archive
Remarkable Presidential Inauguration archive, from the collection of Helen Keyes, documenting her involvement and attendance at the historic inauguration of President John F. Kennedy in January 1961. Helen Keyes, known for her role in political and civic engagement, meticulously preserved her personal notes, plans, and ephemera from this monumental occasion, providing an intimate glimpse into the preparations and experiences of a key attendee at one of the most celebrated inaugurations in U.S. history. The collection is in fine condition, with some expected light wear and is housed in the original mailing envelope from the office of Senator John Kennedy.

The collection includes:

1 - Personal Notes and Trip Plans: Detailed handwritten notes by Helen Keyes outlining her travel arrangements, schedules, and plans for attending the inauguration in Washington, D.C., including logistical details for her trip and accommodations.

2 - Hotel Reservations and Receipts:
A Presidential Inauguration Reservation Receipt documenting Helen Keyes' hotel accommodations in Washington, D.C. from January 17 to January 21, 1961, including her request for a twin bed at a total cost of $82.40.
An Itemized Receipt from The Woodner, listing all her charges during her stay, providing an intimate look at the logistical and personal expenses associated with attending the inaugural events.
Correspondence regarding her housing requests, underscoring the significant planning required for such a high-profile event.

3 - Official Invitation to the Inauguration Ceremony: A beautifully designed invitation to President John F. Kennedy's inauguration on January 20, 1961, a historic and transformative moment in American politics.

4 - Invitation to the Governors' Reception: An exclusive invitation to the Governors of the States and Special Distinguished Guests Reception, held on January 19, 1961, showcasing Keyes' importance within political and social circles.

5 - Official Inauguration Ceremonies Program: The formal printed program for the inauguration, detailing the schedule of events, participants, and performances that marked the transition to the Kennedy administration. This program serves as an essential record of the historic day, including speeches, prayers, and performances.

6 - Calendar of Inaugural Activities: A comprehensive calendar of all official inaugural events, including parades, receptions, balls, and other activities planned as part of the inaugural celebrations. This detailed itinerary provides a snapshot of the grandeur and scale of the Kennedy inauguration and adds valuable context to Helen Keyes' attendance and participation.
7 - Invitation to "The Inauguration of a New Frontier": An invitation to a cocktail event titled "The Inauguration of a New Frontier" held on January 21, 1961, at the Capital Park Apartments. This elegant gathering served as a celebratory conclusion to the inaugural events, attended by key figures in politics, society, and culture.

Provenance: Helen Mary Keyes

Keyes had long and storied ties to the Kennedy family. Her father was the dentist to Joe and Rose Kennedy's children and the families' children became friends. Helen played a major role in JFK's 1952 Senate campaign, hosting famous ‘Ladies' Teas' for the rising star of the Democratic Party. Her involvement continued throughout the Kennedy administration and during both the 1960 and 1964 Presidential campaigns.

This item comes with a Certificate from John Reznikoff, a premier authenticator for both major 3rd party authentication services, PSA and JSA (James Spence Authentications), as well as numerous auction houses.

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  • Dimensions: 10 x 12
  • Medium: Archive

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