Life Preserver from "Honey Fitz" Presidential Yacht
Artifact IDMO 63.1574
Object Type
Preserver, Life
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 DetailsCustodial 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
National Archives Catalog CollectionJohn F. Kennedy Library Museum Collection (National Archives Identifier 1676934)
National Archives Catalog SeriesKennedy Administration Collection 1960-1963 (National Archives Identifier 1676959)
Use Restriction StatusUnrestrictedUse Restriction NoteReproduction or other use of these holdings or images thereof is unrestricted.In Collection(s)
Not on view
