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Life Preserver from "Honey Fitz" Presidential Yacht
John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, Boston, MA; National Archives Records Administration
Life Preserver from "Honey Fitz" Presidential Yacht
John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, Boston, MA; National Archives Records Administration

Life Preserver from "Honey Fitz" Presidential Yacht

Artifact IDMO 63.1574
Date 1961-1963
Medium synthetic foam, rope
DimensionsOverall Diam 21 1/2 in (54.6 cm )

Physical DescriptionLife preserver from the "Honey Fitz", the Presidential yacht used by President's Harry S. Truman through Richard Nixon (renamed several times). Commanded by Lt. Cmdr. Walter C. Syle of the Naval Administration since the Eisenhower administration, the Yacht was renamed the HONEY FITZ by President Kennedy after his grandfather.
Historical NoteThe vessel was primarily used for the Kennedy family and close friends. The yacht was also kept at the Cape and used every weekend from President Kennedy's birthday May 29 until approximately mid September. One particularly happy occasion was the surprise birthday party Jackie threw for her husband in 1963, with most of the family on board.
Additional Details
Custodial History NoteThis item is material associated with the White House the Kennedy Administration and the Executive Offices of the President. It was either government property or 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 NoteThis material is not subject to any known copyright or other image use restrictions.
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