Past Exhibits

“Poetry and Power” presents documents from the Kennedy Presidential Library Archives that trace the evolution of President Kennedy’s inaugural address.  This exhibit focuses on the drafting of President Kennedy’s inaugural address between the election on November 8, 1960, and the inauguration on January 20, 1961. Many of the notes and drafts provide fascinating glimpses into the drafting process.

Treasures from the Kennedy Library Collection (on display December 10, 2010 - September 5, 2011)

This special 50th anniversary exhibit presents treasures from the ceremonial events building up to the inauguration of President John F. Kennedy

May 7, 2010 - November 28, 2010

This exhibit marks the 50th anniversary of the 1960 West Virginia primary, considered by many historians to be one of the most significant state primaries in American political history.

May 16, 2009 - April 28, 2010

In 1961, President Kennedy challenged the nation to land a man on the Moon and return him safely to Earth before the end of the decade. Appealing to the spirit of adventure, to patriotic pride, and to the cause of freedom, his words ignited one of the greatest technological mobilizations in U.S. history. Eight years later, on July 20, 1969, two American astronauts landed on the Moon’s surface. Featuring original documents, photographs, and artifacts, this exhibit illustrates the elements of imagination and engineering that combined to achieve the successful Moon landing.

August 28, 2008 - September 30, 2010

The Making of a President is a special display of archival material and Museum objects from the Library's collection that explores those elements of John F. Kennedy's life that prepared him for a career in public service and motivated him to seek the nation's highest elected office.

September 27, 2007 - August 17, 2008

Explore how the Kennedy Family's participation in athletics and pursuit of a vigorous life was translated into an ideal for the youth of America during the Presidency of John F. Kennedy.

April 12, 2007 - April 03, 2008

Elegant and uplifting entertaining was a hallmark of the Kennedy presidency. Jacqueline Kennedy Entertains: The Art of the White House Dinner special exhibit portrays Jacqueline Kennedy's distinctive and innovative approach to entertaining in the White House using the collections of the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum.

September 28, 2006 - April 1, 2007

A special exhibit from the John F. Kennedy Library Archives of photographs and documents, letters, and journals written by Rose Kennedy offering a glimpse into the history she lived.

March 17, 2006 - September 15, 2007

In June 1963, President John F. Kennedy, America’s first Irish-Catholic president, journeyed to his ancestral homeland of Ireland, a homecoming he later described as “one of the most moving experiences” of his life.

November 25, 2005 - April 3, 2007

A selection of the Library's rich collection of folk art and handmade items from countries around the world. Often not greatly accomplished works of art in and of themselves, such pieces are nonetheless important and fascinating because they relay affection, esteem and pride toward the President and First Lady felt by the makers and donors. Just one of the highlights is a carved peach pit bearing a likeness of JFK.

May 21, 2005 - February 28, 2006

Learn the story of how JFK led his crew to safety after their PT boat was sunk by a Japanese destroyer in the South Pacific and recall the heroism of an entire generation who served their country during World War II.

November 26, 2004 - November 13, 2005

The exchange of gifts among heads of state is a centuries-old tradition, and remains a part of the modern-day culture of international relations. President and Mrs. Kennedy delighted in the gifts presented to them by representatives of countries around the globe, particularly items which showcased the fine work of a foreign country's craftsmen.

November 13, 2003 - November 4, 2004

A special exhibit showcasing some 75 dolls and puppets from 30 countries given to a young Caroline Kennedy between 1961 and 1963.