Unique Kennedy Manuscript at Auction

On October 10th, Swann Galleries will offer at auction a manuscript memoir by Evelyn Marsh Jones, a Kennedy family servant. The manuscript entitled, "Remembrances of My Kennedy Years," was written after Jones retired in 1964.  It has never been published.

Jones (1906 - 1978) spent about ten years employed by the Kennedys on and off between 1932 and 1964. She served the family as a parlor maid and a household manager in both Hyannis Port and Palm Beach.

The memoir contains dozens of insightful anecdotes into domestic Kennedy family described by someone in a special position close to the family. Such anecdotes include a time when Caroline Kennedy interrupted a press conference by walking onto the White House patio wearing her mother's high heels. Jones also writes that the Kennedy family was able to "help themselves, if necessary," adding that Rose Kennedy "often came out and dried dishes so I might get away a little earlier."

Jones saw President Kennedy for the last time eight days before his assassination in 1963. The final visit in Palm Beach is affectionately described in a lengthy passage.

Swann Galleries added in its catalogue entry, "Even leaving the Kennedy connection aside, this is a worthy account of life as a parlor maid and household manager for one of America's most distinguished families. The hard work, last-minute improvisations, staff turnover, and parties with famous guests are all described in detail."

The unique manuscript is estimated at $2,000 - $3,000.