Lot #294

[Kennedy Family] Marlene Dietrich (8) Autograph Letters Signed to Joseph P. Kennedy's Caretaker, Ann Gargan

Description

"My heart is with you—and Uncle Joe. I will write separately to Mrs. Kennedy—and Teddy and Ethel"

Remarkable archive of eight ALSs from Marlene Dietrich to Ann Gargan, a first cousin of John F. Kennedy and the caretaker of his father, Joseph P. Kennedy. All are signed "Marlene," and together they reveal an unusually intimate relationship between Dietrich and the Kennedy family, ranging from affectionate updates on her travels and performances to deeply personal reflections on illness, devotion, grief, and loss. Dietrich repeatedly asks after "Uncle Joe," praises Gargan's extraordinary dedication to him, and writes movingly in the aftermath of the deaths of Robert F. Kennedy and Joseph Kennedy. Spanning the turbulent years of the 1960s, the correspondence offers a warm and candid glimpse of Dietrich's private connection to one of America's most prominent families. Excerpts:

October 4, 1963: "I am leaving and I wish I weren't. How can I tell you what it meant to meet you! I pray for you to keep your strength and your spirits safe. You have my thoughts and admiration."

February 1, 1964: "Was in Poland and it was wonderful. We all cried and sang together, the audience (5000 each concert) and I. Am quite exhausted but have to go on doing a T.V. and appearances in Switzerland…Am recording this afternoon—will send you new records. Kiss Uncle Joe—and I kiss you!"

[September 10, 1964], a postcard from London: "Am thinking of you so often."

[December 14, 1964]: "I am so happy about the photograph of Uncle Joe & Ted—I didn't know Uncle Joe was so so so much better!!!!"

June 7, 1968, on the assassination of Robert F. Kennedy: "My heart is with you—and Uncle Joe. I will write separately to Mrs. Kennedy—and Teddy and Ethel—but they will probably never see my letters in the mass of letters arriving. I put my arms around you in love."

July 18, 1968: "I thank you deeply for thinking of me. As I cannot have the speeches photostated without taking the book apart I beg you to send 3 books…I will be singing again, this time at the Mark Hellinger Theatre, in New York…I never asked Bobby for a large picture…I thank you for the pictures you sent. In all my sadness I have to smile back at him."

November 16, 1969, on the death of Joseph P. Kennedy Sr.: "I am thinking of you with a much lighter heart now. The readjustment will take its time—but then you will be able to live your own life. Your devotion to Uncle Joe will be rewarded either by the heavens or someone. I always thought you were a saint and I always knew of the burden you carried."

No date: "Happy about your letter and the new set of doctors. High time—I should say! Love hearing from you!"

In overall very good to fine condition. Accompanied by four of the original mailing envelopes, all addressed in Dietrich's own hand. Also includes a hardcover 1962 edition of Marlene Dietrich's ABC, signed and inscribed on the first free end page in blue ballpoint, "To Ann, my thanks, Marlene, Sept. 1963."
From the estate of Ann Gargan King.

Auction Info

• Auction Title: Fine Autographs and Artifacts Featuring John F. Kennedy
• Dates:
  Starts:

  10/15/2026
  Ends:

  11/11/2026