September 22, 2011
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 9/22/2011
It has long been debated as to President John F. Kennedy's views on American troops being sent to Vietnam. Some historians feel JFK would have started pulling troops and advisors out of Vietnam in his second term as President, while some feel that he would have escalated the involvement of the United States presence in the Vietnam conflict. Whatever side one takes on this issue, offered is proof positive how a close confident of President Kennedy felt, that confident being his long time personal secretary Evelyn Lincoln. Mrs. Lincoln worked with President Kennedy from his early days in the Senate in 1953 to that fateful day in Dallas Texas on November 22, 1963. Mrs. Lincoln was riding in the motorcade that sunny day in Dallas, and took possession of the President's personal effects at Parkland hospital after his assassination. Offered in a 1 page TLS from Mrs. Lincoln to our consignor. The letter is dated November 10, 1994, only 6 months before her death in May 1995. The letter, on her personal stationary, comes with its original transmittal cover. She is responding to a letter written to Mrs. Lincoln by our consignor regarding JFK and the Vietnam conflict, she responds: "Many thanks for your kind letter expressing your interest in our late President John F. Kennedy. In 1964 I was interviewed by Lady's Circle and this same article was reprinted in that magazine recently. I am enclosing a copy of that article which gives my views concerning his honesty and dedication to the American people. In answer to your question, President Kennedy planned to start withdrawal of the troops from Vietnam shortly after his return from Dallas on November 22nd, but was unable to accomplish this withdrawal as planned. With Every good wish, Sincerely, Evelyn Lincoln". Along with the letter and envelope a copy of the Lady's Circle article is included. Mrs. Lincoln spent many hours with President Kennedy. Did they have conversations about Vietnam? One will never know what was said behind the closed door of the Oval Office. Just some more evidence for collectors and historians to ponder.
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