Hand-illuminated mourning poem honoring the memory of Patrick J. Kennedy, the paternal grandfather of President John F. Kennedy, one page, 14 x 20.5, no date but circa 1929. Commissioned by leaders of the Democratic Party in Boston, the poem is headed: "In wholehearted desire to memorialize East Boston's native son, our late, love associate and cherished friend, Patrick J. Kennedy, who truly lived for men in emulation of the Gentle Nazarene, whose teachings our deceased comrade unfailingly followed." The first verse reads: "Great Heart and Noblest Roman of them all, / in tender fragrant memory we recall / that gentle voice and smiling mien / pulsating sympathy so keen / that those distressed were wont to lean / on Kennedy." Signed at the conclusion in ink by eight prominent Boston Democrats, including John F. 'Honey Fitz' Fitzgerald, the maternal grandfather of President John F. Kennedy. Archivally double-matted and framed to an overall size of 20 x 26.5. In fine condition, with a bit of scattered foxing.
