Lot #68

[John F. Kennedy] Harvard University Class of 1940 Banner

Description

Original Harvard University felt banner for the class of 1940, measuring 26″ x 14.25″, consisting of a crimson field with off-white borders and lettering, “HARVARD, 1940,” and a large central leather insignia of the Harvard coat of arms. Reverse bears the original Chicago Pennant Company manufacturer’s tag. In fine condition, with trivial slight stains to borders.

In his short Harvard application essay, Kennedy famously concluded: 'To be a 'Harvard man' is an enviable distinction, and one that I sincerely hope I shall attain.' He indeed attained it, graduating cum laude as part of the class of 1940 with a Bachelor of Arts in government, concentrating on international affairs. His thesis, 'Appeasement in Munich,' about British participation in the Munich Agreement, soon became a bestseller under the title Why England Slept. After graduating he briefly enrolled in the politically conservative Stanford Graduate School of Business in the fall of 1941, but soon left in order to join the Navy as part of the American effort in World War II.

Auction Info

• Auction Title: Fine Autograph and Artifacts Featuring John F. Kennedy
• Dates: #647 - Ended November 09, 2022