Details:

Ethel Kennedy autographed condolence note card with original mailing envelope addressed to Benjamin A. Smith II and his wife. The printed sympathy message was personally inscribed by Ethel in purple ink, “Dear Sis and Ben,” and concluded in her hand, “Thanks so much - Love, Ethel.”

The note was sent following the death of Ethel’s son, David Anthony Kennedy (1955-1984), whose tragic passing deeply affected the Kennedy family. The printed text expresses gratitude for the recipients’ support and prayers, reading in part: “We are deeply touched that you share our sorrow. Your love and prayers comfort us…” The card further reflects upon David’s faith and remembrance alongside his father, Senator Robert F. Kennedy.

A particularly personal piece of Kennedy family correspondence sent to Benjamin A. Smith II and his wife. Smith was among the Kennedy family’s closest lifelong friends, having roomed with John F. Kennedy at Harvard University before maintaining decades-long personal and political ties with the family. Following Kennedy’s election to the presidency, Smith was appointed to fill JFK’s vacated United States Senate seat and remained a trusted confidant of multiple generations of Kennedys. Ethel’s warm salutation and closing underscore the close friendship shared between the Smith and Kennedy families.

Fine condition. Accompanied by the original postmarked mailing envelope.

Ethel Kennedy (1928-2024) was the widow of Senator Robert F. Kennedy and one of the most prominent members of the Kennedy family. Following her husband’s assassination in 1968, she devoted her life to public service, human rights advocacy, and the work of the Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights organization. A mother of eleven children, she remained a central figure in the Kennedy family’s public and private life for more than half a century.

Provenance: From the estate of Benjamin A. Smith II, Harvard roommate of President John F. Kennedy, lifelong Kennedy family friend, former United States Senator from Massachusetts, and father of Benjamin A. Smith III.

Authentication:
Includes a full letter of authenticity from JG Autographs, Inc.

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Reference sku: 11691 1416396-1