This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 5/1/2022
Offered is a 1961 Presidential Gift Print given from President John F. Kennedy and First Lady Jaqueline Kennedy to their White House staff. The wonderful photo display's printed message reads "With our appreciation and best wishes for a happy Christmas. John F. Kennedy Jacqueline Kennedy 1961."
For the first Christmas gift in 1961, the First Lady chose a photograph of little Caroline Kennedy’s ducks in the fountain on the South Lawn with the White House in the background. Caroline, who was only five-years-old at the time, had raised the yellow-beaked white ducks from baby ducklings. After several months of trying to keep the Kennedy’s terrier, Charlie, from eating her fine-feathered friends, they were transported to safer grounds in Rock Creek Park located in northwest D.C. Before the ducks’ transfer, the President’s personal photographer, Cecil Stoughton, snapped the memorable picture of the ducks in the fountain.
Hallmark president Joyce C. Hall, who had been Eisenhower’s go-to man for Christmas cards and gift prints, was again commissioned to assist the Kennedys. Hallmark reproduced 1,000 color gift prints, each accompanied by a red protective folder with an embossed Presidential Seal on the front. The Christmas gift prints were given to White House staff members at an informal reception held in mid-December 1961. The offered copy is missing the red folder and has been re-adhered to the matting. It measures 17 x 14 inches and presents with mild toning. Excellent condition.