daily: 9am–5pm; closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s Day
If you are over 40, chances are you have some memory of all that is displayed here at the JFK Library. If you're younger, here's a chance to discover just why this nation can't stop talking about John Fitzgerald Kennedy. This self-guided tour shows it all, from Kennedy's youth through his assassination and beyond.
The building itself, designed by architect I. M. Pei, is a structure to note. Inside, let the floor plan guide you to the introductory biographical film. After that, descend to the exhibits and take a walk through American history. The layout of the exhibits carries visitors forward from the 1960 Convention where Kennedy was nominated to run for President on the Democratic ticket, through to the reflections on his legacy. It's chilling to experience again the sights and sounds of 1960. It's sobering to pass through the darkened corridor where videos of the reports of his assassination replay over and over again.
In between, history is made as Kennedy makes his famous inaugural speech, sets this nation firmly in the center of the Cuban Missile crisis (there's another, optional film here), founds the Peace Corps and the Space Program, and struggles alongside brother Robert (who was his Attorney General) to move America closer to equal rights. A replica of 'Bobby's' office displays key documents from the Civil Rights Movement.
The rest of the Kennedy family is not left out. JFK's origins, siblings, parents and roots to Ireland are all found here. His marriage to Jacqueline, and her accomplishments as First Lady are as much a part of the story as anything else. The work of his two brothers, Robert and Edward, are reflected as well. The Kennedy Library Foundation presents a Profile in Courage Award every year to an individual who demonstrates political courage as defined by Kennedy's book of the same name. The award is in the glass pavilion at the exit.
For many, this will not be an easy visit. Kennedy's presidency was an emotional time for this country; Americans were filled with excitement and hope as JFK laid out plans for the future. If you're at all inclined to tears, bring tissues. But don't avoid a visit here - it's renewing for many.
Kennedy's presidential, congressional, and personal papers reside in the Kennedy Library's Archives. Although the Archives are not open to the public, researchers do have access. Interestingly, Ernest Hemingway's manuscripts and correspondence belong to the Library, as well. In addition, the Library offers educational and community programs. The website is a good place to begin political research. There is computer access on the tour, take the time to explore.
The Library is on a peninsula that juts out into Boston Harbor. Take advantage of views while you visit.
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