A Glimpse into the Kennedy Family's Private Life: Handwritten Letters and Meal Plans Up for Auction

Created: JANUARY 19, 2025

An intriguing collection of documents offering a peek into the private lives of John and Jacqueline Kennedy is currently up for auction. These items, originally sent to the Kennedy's chef and housekeeper, Tania Herbst, between May and August 1958, include handwritten letters, family photographs, and detailed meal plans.

Kennedy photos and letters

The collection, being auctioned by RR Auction in Boston, provides a fascinating glimpse into the Kennedys' time in Georgetown during JFK's Senate years. Jackie Kennedy's handwritten notes, some in French, reveal details about the couple's dietary preferences. For instance, she notes that "Mr. K" disliked fried foods and favored creamed dishes, while she preferred salads and fruit. Specific breakfast instructions for the future president included poached eggs, bacon, toast, and orange juice.

  • Recipes

    Jacqueline Kennedy's meal plans for the family chef.

  • Recipes

    Handwritten recipes and notes from Jackie Kennedy.

  • Recipes

    Meal plans sent by Jackie Kennedy for their D.C. home.

Other meal requests included homemade cream soup, broiled chicken, macaroni salad, creamed spinach, steak, and hamburgers. A handwritten recipe for egg muffins, written in a mix of French and English, is also part of the collection.

Post cards

In addition to the meal plans, the auction includes three handwritten letters from Jackie, two on her personal letterhead. One letter is a recommendation for Herbst, praising her cooking skills and reliability. Another reveals Jackie's concern about food costs, urging Herbst to keep expenses within a $75 monthly budget while the family was away.

Kennedy family photos

The collection also features a postcard from the French Riviera, family photos of the Kennedys with a baby and a group of men, pictures of Joseph P. Kennedy Sr., and photos of Herbst with young Ted and Joan Kennedy. Christmas cards from Ted and Joan, with personal messages, are also included.

Family photos

As of Tuesday, the collection had attracted 15 bidders, with the price reaching $2,600. The auction is set to conclude on Wednesday, July 12.

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