JFK and Jackie Sailing the waters of Cape Cod off Hyannis in the Summer of 1953

Image: Hy Peskin, Time Life Pictures / Getty Images

In light of the SUN article on Catholicism in the 1960 Presidential election, this image of John F. Kenndy and Jacqueline Bouvier sailing in the waters off Cape Cod in July 1953 caught my eye.  It’s one a a few image of the Classic American Summer on The DailyBeast web site today. It was just before their lavish yet romantic wedding at St. Mary’s Church in Newport, Rhode Island and reception in nearby Hammersmith Farm on September 12, 1953.  The youth and enthusiam that later captivated a country is very apparent in the photograph.

This poem written by Jackie when she was only ten years old shows a hint of what a connection she really did share with the Kennedys in their love of  the ocean, the beach and sailing about the waters of  Cape Cod.

“Sea Joy”

When I go down by the sandy shore
I can think of nothing I want more
Than to live by the booming blue sea
As the seagulls flutter round about me
I can run about when the tide is out
With the wind and the sand and the sea all about
And the seagulls are swirling and diving for fish.
Oh – to live by the sea is my only wish.

 The Wedding Reception on September 12, 1953

Check here for Jacquline Bouvier Kennedy’s offical biography: http://www.jfklibrary.org/Historical+Resources/Biographies+and+Profiles/Biographies/Jacqueline+Bouvier+Kennedy+First+Lady+1961-1963.htm