The bible Jacqueline Kennedy held following President John F. Kennedy’s assassination in 1963 is being put up for auction this month. The leather-bound tome was used by Jackie Kennedy to select the words to be read at her husband’s funeral, after he was tragically shot on November 22, 1963. A bookplate inside the bible bears an inscription by Kennedy stating its significance in the funeral arrangements.
The bible was originally gifted to the caretaker of Cardinal Richard Cushing, a close friend of the Kennedys and the Archbishop of Boston. Despite the cover of the bible displaying the date of JFK’s Inauguration, it is not the same bible in which the late president was sworn into office. The director of Americana at Heritage Auctions in Dallas, Curtis Lindner, speculated that a devoted Kennedy follower might be willing to pay up to $50,000 for this significant relic during the live auction scheduled for April 26. Previous Kennedy artifacts have sold for substantial amounts, with rocking chairs belonging to the former president going for over $400,000.
Lindner described the bible as a “sad piece of history” but nonetheless a significant piece of history. The bidding for the bible has already reached $19,375, with more expected as the auction progresses. In addition to the bible, Heritage Auctions is also offering letters written by Jacqueline Kennedy to Cardinal Cushing in the wake of JFK’s death, as well as other Kennedy memorabilia such as golf balls and Christmas cards. These items provide a poignant glimpse into the grieving process of the former First Lady and the nation as a whole following the tragic loss of President Kennedy.
The significance of the bible lies in its role as a source of comfort and guidance for Jacqueline Kennedy during a time of profound grief and mourning. By turning to the scriptures for solace and inspiration, she was able to find the words to honor her husband’s memory at his funeral. The inscription on the bookplate serves as a poignant reminder of the personal connection between the Kennedys and the bible, making it a cherished piece of memorabilia for collectors and historians alike.
The auction of the bible and other Kennedy artifacts provides an opportunity for individuals to own a piece of American history and connect with the legacy of President John F. Kennedy and his family. The high level of interest and bidding for these items reflects the enduring fascination and admiration for the Kennedy family and their impact on American politics and culture. Through these artifacts, we are reminded of the lasting legacy of the Kennedys and the profound impact they had on the nation during their time in the White House and beyond.
