KENNEDY, JACQUELINE. (1929-1994). First lady; wife of John F. Kennedy, thirty-fifth president of the United States. ALS. (“Jackie”). 1½pp. 8vo. N.p., N.d. [1957]. On black-bordered stationery. To “Rosie,” (ROSEMARY VANDERBILT WARBURTON CHISHOLM, 1920-1974).
“It was so very thoughtful of you to send me a telegram as soon as you had heard of Daddy’s death. I was really terribly touched – having never lost anyone close before – I didn’t realize what a comfort it is to hear from your friends – especially right afterwards, for that is when you are still the most stunned. So I want to thank you more than I can say – and tell you how much I appreciated it. Love…”
After earning the title “debutante of the year,” Jackie studied at Vassar, the Sorbonne and George Washington University. Her education was followed by employment as the Washington Times-Herald’s “Inquiring Camera Girl.” It was in this capacity in May 1951 that she first met Senator John F. Kennedy from Massachusetts, considered to be Washington’s most eligible bachelor. They were engaged in June 1953 and the wedding three months later marked the beginning of the public’s fascination with the couple.
