Description
Limited edition of the Inaugural Address of John F. Kennedy, inscribed by Kennedy aide, Dave Powers, to his long-time assistant at the Kennedy Library.
Slim octavo, [6], 8pp, [1]. Publisher’s white cloth with gilt stamped cover and spine. Internally clean. Faint blemishes to white cloth. Tissue guard to title page. White cloth slipcase with Presidential Seal stamped in gilt on cover, a few points of wear and blemishes to cloth.
This copy is not signed by President Kennedy. It is inscribed on the front free endpaper by Kennedy aide, Dave Powers, to his long-time assistant at the Kennedy Library, Charlotte Woodfin. The inscription reads: “To: Charlotte / Merry Christmas 1979 and Best wishes always / Dave Powers.”
It is believed that 100 copies of this unstated limited edition printing published for friends of the administration. They were given as gifts during the 1961 Christmas season. President Kennedy’s inaugural address in 1961 is arguably one of the most recognized political speeches of the 20th century, with the famous line: “…ask not what your country can do for you- ask what you can do for your country.”
Dave Powers (1912-1998) was a longtime friend, aide, and political associate of John F. Kennedy, closely connected to him from Kennedy’s first congressional campaign in 1946 through his presidency. A Boston native and World War II veteran, Powers became Kennedy’s trusted advance man and scheduler, traveling extensively during Kennedy’s Senate and presidential campaigns, known for his ability to connect with crowds and build support. During Kennedy’s presidency, Powers served as Special Assistant in the White House, often accompanying him at public events and private moments, and was in the Dallas motorcade on November 22, 1963. After Kennedy’s assassination, Powers became the first curator of the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum in Boston.
