Crucifix
Artifact IDMO 63.5445
Object Type
Crucifix
Date
1950-1962
Gifter
Kathleen O'Hara
Medium
Wood, metal
DimensionsOverall H 2 1/2 in x W 1 3/8 in (6.4 cm x 3.5 cm )
Physical DescriptionWood cross in decorative metal mounts, Christ figure in center, circular reliquary holder at bottom. Cross is tied with red fabric ribbon to card stock; handwritten inscription in ink on bottom of card states that the crucifix was blessed by Pope John XXIII.
Historical NoteKathleen O'Hara, a private citizen, mailed this crucifix to President Kennedy in October 1962, at the height of the Cuban Missile Crisis. The gift acknowledged Kennedy’s Catholicism and expressed spiritual support during one of the 20th century’s most dangerous periods.
Additional DetailsCustodial History NoteItem was a gift from a member of the general public to the President and Mrs. Kennedy received by the Executive Office of the President betwen 1961-1963 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
National Archives Catalog CollectionJohn F. Kennedy Library Museum Collection (National Archives Identifier 1676934)
National Archives Catalog SeriesGifts from Public (National Archives Identifier 1677327)
Use Restriction StatusUnrestrictedUse Restriction NoteThis material is not subject to any known copyright or other image use restrictions.In Collection(s)
Not on view
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