1996 Sotheby's Onassis Auction

Catalogue Introduction by Caroline Kennedy and John F. Kennedy Jr.:

In deciding what to do with our mother's possessions, we were guided first and foremost by her knowledge and love of history. She was proud to have played a part in the history of our country, and in accordance with her wishes, we have given objects and documents which help chronicle the Kennedy Administration and her role as First lady to the John F. Kennedy Library Foundation which will make them available to the public.

Beyond that, our mother believed in individuals more than in institutions. She was able to evoke the lives and people of other times and places, describing to us the ancient pharaohs, court society at Versailles, or life on a Nantucket whaling ship so vividly that we felt we had visited these wondrous places.

For our mother, history came alive through objects and paintings, a well as books. Because the things she collected link her with history, and because she cared about them, they represent more than just a record of her life and travels.

As they go out into the world, we hope that they bring with them not only their own beauty and spirit, but some of hers as well.

Source: Sotheby's 1996 Auction Catalogue

Notes: Caroline sold additional family possessions at a 2005 Sotheby's auction featuring items from the family's Hyannis Port, MA; Peapack, NJ; Middleburg, VA; and Martha's Vineyard, MA homes.