President John F. Kennedy achieved many great things for the United States, and his legacy is long-lasting. One lesser-known fact about America’s 35th president is that Cape Cod held a special place in his heart and is one of the few places where he could relax, recuperate, and reconnect with his family. The John F. Kennedy Hyannis Museum commemorates that love of family and the Cape while telling the history of the Kennedy family.
“JFK would come to visit the Cape every summer weekend,” says Pierce-Cote, a co-creator, and curator of the museum. “It was a real retreat for him. Carrying the world’s burdens on his shoulders was not an easy task, so being able to go out and sail while reuniting with his family made this a very joyful place.”
The John F. Kennedy Hyannis Museum focuses on honoring the story of the president and his beloved
Cape Cod. Expect to learn more about his presidency and world events during that time. Many visitors especially enjoy the deeper dive into his connection to the area. Exhibits deal with the seriousness of his most challenging political issues and explore Cape Cod’s well-known fun, beauty, and enchantment.
“We pride ourselves on providing something for every visitor,” says Pierce-Cote, on the exhibits that the Museum features. “We’ve found that there’s a craving for knowledge and education in all ages, but there’s also a desire to revisit the joy and positivity that many associates with that period and JFK’s presidency.”
The JFK at 100: Life and Legacy exhibit explores all aspects of JFK’s life, including the impact that he made during his presidency that continues to resonate even now. Learn more about JFK from his childhood through the election, through the lens of his close friends and family. Known then as Jack, see the man he was before his presidency and better understand the origins of his morals and character.
Then, discover the details of his time as president, from his days spent in the White House to his weekends in Hyannis Port, known as the Summer White House.
“JFK at 100: Life and Legacy is an inspirational journey through the various stages of JFK’s life,” states Pierce-Cote. “And we’ve seen how visitors of all ages enjoy the education this exhibit provides, highlighting portions of our history that they may not get as many details on in the classroom.”
This summer marks the return of RFK: Ripple of Hope, a favorite exhibit of the museum and visitors alike. Learn about Robert F. Kennedy beginning with his early years through featured images from his time on the Cape, his work as U.S. Attorney General, his election to the U.S. Senate, and finishing with his presidential campaign. A central focal point of this exhibit is his dedication to social justice and his famous speech on ending apartheid in South Africa.
“This exhibit is important and appeals to many because the themes speak to the topics that are still on
people’s minds today,” suggests Pierce-Cote.
Creating Camelot: The Kennedy Photography of Jacques Lowe explores the glamour and beauty of the Kennedy family, which is perfect for fashion and history lovers. Captured by the family’s personal photographer Jacques Lowe, these images give a unique behind-the-scenes look at John F. Kennedy, his wife, Jacqueline, and their children, Caroline and John.
The dedication and work required to restore the photos that bring the exhibit to life are extraordinary. Jacques Lowe kept the negatives of his legendary photography in a World Trade Center bank vault, and all 40,000 were tragically destroyed during the attacks of September 11. However, thanks to the tireless efforts of The Newseum and the Lowe estate, they were able to digitally restore the work that Lowe, fortunately, kept at another New York City facility.
"People long for a connection to a president who was beloved, and the fact that JFK was young, vibrant, and deeply cared for his country and beautiful family makes him even more appealing to our visitors,” asserts Pierce-Cote. “These photographs do a magnificent job of capturing all aspects of him.”
Located at 397 Main St, Hyannis, MA, The John F. Kennedy Museum is open April 29 through May 29, Thursday – Saturday from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm. From May 31 through September 3, the hours are Monday – Friday from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm and closed on Saturdays and Sundays. Admission for seniors (65+) is $11, adults (18-61) is $13, youths (6-7) and students with ID is $7, and children five and under are free. Free parking is available on site.
By Digital Content Coordinator, ARIANA JENNELL
New York: New York City
Massachusetts: Cape Cod
Other States: Connecticut Maine Massachusetts New Hampshire Rhode Island Vermont
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