Details:

John F. Kennedy funeral remembrance group consisting of an original The Mass on the Day of Burial for John Fitzgerald Kennedy booklet distributed for the President’s funeral at Saint Matthew’s Cathedral in Washington, D.C., accompanied by three memorial prayer cards featuring official portrait images of Kennedy issued in the aftermath of his assassination.

The funeral booklet was prepared for attendees of the solemn Requiem Mass held on November 25, 1963, three days after President Kennedy’s assassination in Dallas, Texas. The cover reads, “The Mass on the Day of Burial for John Fitzgerald Kennedy, Born May 29, 1917 - Died November 22, 1963, at Saint Matthew’s Cathedral, Washington, D.C.” Such booklets were intended to guide mourners through the funeral liturgy and remain among the most recognizable artifacts associated with the national period of mourning that followed Kennedy’s death.

Included with the booklet are three period memorial cards depicting Kennedy in official portrait formats, including one laminated remembrance card bearing his presidential dates and years of service. Together, the group presents an evocative collection of funeral and memorial material preserved from the era.

Of special significance, this group originates from the estate of Benjamin A. Smith II, one of John F. Kennedy’s closest lifelong friends. Smith and Kennedy were roommates at Harvard University and maintained a close friendship throughout their lives. Following Kennedy’s election to the presidency, Smith was appointed to the United States Senate from Massachusetts to fill the vacancy created when Kennedy resigned his Senate seat. 

Good condition overall with expected handling wear, light toning, and age-related wear.

Provenance: From the estate of Benjamin A. Smith II, Harvard roommate and lifelong friend of President John F. Kennedy, former United States Senator from Massachusetts. Accompanied by a signed letter of provenance from Benjamin A. Smith III documenting direct family ownership.

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

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Reference sku: 11691 1416390-1