Management

About the Park
Date Authorized: May 26, 1967 (Public Law 90-20)
Superintendent: Myra Harrison
Phone: [phone]

Mission & Significance of the Park
The National Park Service is committed to preserving John Fitzgerald Kennedy National Historic Site, the birthplace and childhood home of the 35th president of the United States. It was here, in the first home shared by the future president's parents, that Joseph and Rose Kennedy cultivated and instilled in their son the family's principles, skills, aspirations, and ambitions.

 

Park Planning Documents
As part of our planning process, the National Park Service has done several studies and Kennedy family and the landscape of Beals Street. These studies are available for download below.

 

NPS

Cultural Landscape Report
In 2013, the park completed a Cultural Landscape Report. This new report details the history of the greater Brookline area landscapes with a special focus on 83 Beal Street, the president's birthplace. Brookline's function as a streetcar suburb is described in detail, as well as new research on the home's transition from private residence to National Historic Site. Highlights of the report include detailed neighborhood maps showing changes in street design and structures over time as well many never before seen photographs of 83 Beals Street from 1914 to the present day. Click here to download a pdf of the report.

 

NPS

Historic Resource Study
In 2007, the park completed a Historic Resource Study. The study places the Kennedy family's experiences and attitudes while living in Brookline in the historical context of the 1900s. This context offers insight into the social identities of the Kennedy family, life at home and the character of Brookline. The study concludes with an overview of how the home at 83 Beals Street transformed from a private residence to a National Historic Site and thoughtfully considers the process of memorialization. Click here to access a pdf of this exciting study!

 

NPS Management Policies

General Management Plan
The park has received funding to prepare the first formal strategic plan for John Fitzgerald Kennedy National Historic Site. The park needs a strategic plan to address a range of questions and issues and to plan for long-term preservation of the historic resource while supporting visitor use, expanding useful partnerships and remaining a responsible member of the Brookline community. The plan will include an evaluation of environmental impacts and will be developed in collaboration with the public and park partners. Return to these pages for more information about the planning process, schedule, issues and ways to provide your comments and ideas in the future.