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John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, Boston, MA
John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, Boston, MA
Plaque of the Island of Fayal of the Azores
John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, Boston, MA

Plaque of the Island of Fayal of the Azores

Artifact IDMO 63.229
Object Type Plaque
Date 1962-1963
Medium Wood
DimensionsOverall H 15 in x W 12 in (38.1 cm x 30.5 cm )

Physical DescriptionWooden plaque carved with an outline of the island of Fayal of the Azores, a Seal of the United States, and coat of arms with text: "we are grateful, god bless you"
Historical NoteThis plaque was given by the people of the Island of Fayal, the Azores who settled in Rhode Island and Massachusetts after an earthquake on the Island.
The island of Fayal experienced intense earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. In 1958, Senator John F. Kennedy of Massachusetts and Senator John Pastore of Rhode Island sponsored a bill that was passed authorizing non-quota visas for displaced Portuguese citizens. Under the Azorean refugees act that was extended until June 1962, almost 5,000 Portugese came to the United States.
Additional Details
Custodial History NoteItem was a gift from people of the Island of Fayal to the President Kennedy received by the Executive Office of the President in June 1963 and held by the General Service Administration until it was donated to the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum by the Estate of President John F. Kennedy in 1965.
Credit LineJohn F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, Boston, MA; Gift of the Estate of President John F. Kennedy
Use Restriction StatusUnrestrictedUse Restriction NoteReproduction or other use of these holdings or images thereof is unrestricted.
Not on view