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Vintage matte-finish 8 x 10 photo of John F. Kennedy shaking hands with supporter Matthew Stacey, president of the Worcester Brewing Company, during a local campaign event for the former’s reelection as a Massachusetts senator, signed and inscribed in bold black ink, “To Matthew J. Stacey – with thanks and every good wish – John Kennedy.” The reverse bears a credit stamp for photographer Marvin Richmond. In fine condition, with a small crease to the upper left corner. Encapsulated in a PSA/DNA authentication holder.
Accompanied by the original mailing envelope, which bears two facsimile Kennedy signatures, and a transmittal letter from Kennedy’s aide, Francis X. Morrissey, United States Senate letterhead, September 18, 1958, addressed to Stacey: “I am enclosing the picture that Jack autographed for you. He is deeply appreciative of everything you have done for him.”
Following World War II, the Worcester-based Brockert Brewing Company changed its name to the Worcester Brewing Company. The brewery purchased the rights from a tobacco company to Tadcaster Ale in 1946, and later licensed Dugan’s Extra Fine Ale in the 1950s. The lighter Dugan’s was a departure from the high-alcohol Brockert ales, and its sales sustained the brewery until it closed due to flagging sales in 1962. At its height, the Worcester Brewing Company put out between 40,000 and 50,000 barrels per year. Central to the brewery’s success was Joseph ‘Matt’ Stacey, who served as its first treasurer and later became president in 1941. Active politically, he served as comptroller of the commonwealth, a member of the original lottery commission, and the city auditor. He was instrumental in expanding the brewery’s assortment and connecting it with the community.
