TLS signed “John Kennedy,” one page, 8 x 10.5, Congress of the United States letterhead, June 6, 1949. Letter to Vincent P. O’Brien, High Chief Ranger, High Standing Committee of the Massachusetts Catholic Order of Foresters in Boston, Massachusetts. In full: “This will acknowledge receipt of your letter of May 31st, in which you enclosed a copy of a resolution adopted at the 69th Annual Session of the Massachusetts Catholic Order of Foresters. In reply, I wish to thank you for writing me at this time, and for forwarding me a copy of this resolution for a United Ireland. I read the resolution with a great deal of interest, and you may be sure that the views expressed therein will be carefully borne in mind in the event such legislation comes before the House for consideration.” Under his signature, Kennedy adds a handwritten postscript which reads, “I naturally support your resolution whole heartedly.” In fine condition, with small rusty paperclip mark to top edge.
Long before being synonymous with Boston and Massachusetts, Kennedy’s ancestors called western Ireland home. Throughout his life, JFK cherished his Irish bloodline, and during a visit to Ireland during his presidency told of how his great-grandfather came to America with ‘a strong religious faith and a strong desire for liberty. I am glad to say that all of his great-grandchildren have valued that inheritance.’ That pride is visible in this correspondence to the Massachusetts Catholic Order of Foresters, a mutual aid society established to help members in distress. Despite Kennedy’s reference here to “resolution for a United Ireland,” close to 50 years would pass before armed campaigns between Northern Ireland and Ireland ceased thanks to the ‘Good Friday Agreement’—though a truly united Ireland still remains out of reach. Great association between Kennedy’s heritage and the ongoing political unrest in Ireland. Pre-certified John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and RR Auction COA.
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