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Oral history
John F. Kennedy Oral History Collection
JFKOH-AUG-01
In this interview Heckscher discusses John F. Kennedy [JFK] and Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy Onassis as an “inspiration to cultural life”; Heckscher’s involvement in government affairs prior to becoming a Special Consultant to the President; the invitation of 168 artists to JFK’s 1961 inauguration and its impact; how Heckscher came to work for the White House; discussing Heckscher’s position with Arthur M. Schlesinger, Jr.; the reasoning behind the creation of the new position of Special Consultant on the Arts and the favorable public reaction to it; enlarging the definition of “The Arts,” especially regarding architecture; Arthur Goldberg; the establishment of the Freedom Medal; creating the President’s Advisory Committee on the Arts through executive order; personal impressions of JFK; setting up Heckscher’s office and staff; how Heckscher was meant to advise JFK and what his position entailed; the Cultural Center [Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts]; conversations with JFK; Mrs. Kennedy’s expansive work for the arts; the arts as part of national policy; working with other White House staff members and other Departments; designing special postage stamps; what the President’s role in the arts should be; and the Fine Arts Commission, among other issues.
Photograph
White House Photographs
JFKWHP-ST-412-4-63
Actor and comedian, Bob Hope, shows fellow comedian, Milton Berle, his Congressional Gold Medal, presented to him earlier in the day by President John F. Kennedy in recognition of his services to the country as an entertainer during World War II. Reporters observe, including White House correspondent for United Press International (UPI), Helen Thomas (standing behind Mr. Hope), and Washington political reporter for the New York Times, Tom Wicker (right of Ms. Thomas). West Wing Lobby, White House, Washington, D.C.
Photograph
White House Photographs
JFKWHP-ST-412-3-63
Actor and comedian, Bob Hope, visits with fellow comedian, Milton Berle, following Mr. Hope’s Congressional Gold Medal presentation ceremony; he received the medal from President John F. Kennedy in recognition of his services to the country as an entertainer during World War II. Reporters observe, including White House correspondent for United Press International (UPI), Helen Thomas (standing in center, between Mr. Berle and Mr. Hope), and White House correspondent for The Washington Star, Garnett D. Horner (standing at right, behind Mr. Hope). Also pictured: White House Secret Service agent, Floyd Boring (at left, in background). West Wing Lobby, White House, Washington, D.C.