On the evening of May 19, 1962, 17,000 people filled Madison Square Garden to celebrate the birthday of President John F. Kennedy. Star studded gala featured appearances and musical numbers by many noted celebrities including Maria Callas and Peggy Lee. The number that stole the show was Monroe’s now famous rendition of “Happy Birthday, Mr. President.” Original and rare program from John F. Kennedy’s 1962 Birthday celebration, held on May 19, 1962 at Madison Square Garden. Two page program measures 8.25 x 10.5 when closed. Program is signed on the back cover in blue ballpoint, “Marilyn Monroe,” and also signed in blue ballpoint by Peter Lawford, Eddie Jackson and Jimmy Durante, in pencil by Henry Fonda and in blue ink by opera legend Maria Callas. Program and signatures were obtained by Allen Gore, the bodyguard assigned by the NYPD to protect Monroe. Program is accompanied by a letter of provenance from Gore, which reads, in part, “I personally collected the autographs signed on the enclosed Events Program in Marilyn’s green room/dressing room at the old Madison Square Garden in New York City.” Program is also accompanied by two photographs of Gore and Monroe backstage at the event. Interesting to note that Marilyn’s personal copy of the program from the event sold at auction for over $100,000. This program however, is the first signed program we have ever seen, supported by excellent provenance. In fine condition, with a bisecting vertical fold, light edge wear, faint pencil notations to top right over back cover and some trivial soiling. COA PSA/DNA and R&R COA.
