JOFI Wayside: Memory and Memorial

The exterior of 83 Beals Street changed as it became a memorial site.

NPS Photo

Quick Facts

Location:

Walkway outside 83 Beals Street, Brookline, MA

Amenities

2 listed

Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits, Wheelchair Accessible

Over the decades, the landscaping here changed significantly, with new houses and mature trees filling in the “good clear view” up the street.

After John F. Kennedy’s 1960 election as president, this house became a site of commemoration. The first marker was erected in 1961 by the Town of Brookline. Following his assassination in 1963, the house became a focus of public mourning and memorials. A second marker was installed in 1964 noting the National Historic Landmark status.

In 1966, the Kennedy family repurchased the home and Rose Kennedy became the driving force behind its preservation. Relying on her memory and the assistance of interior decorator Robert Luddington, Mrs. Kennedy aimed to re-create the home’s 1917 appearance. Today, visitors see it through Mrs. Kennedy’s memorial lens.

Audio description of this wayside (including text and images) is available through this application with a screenreader.