Peace Corps Memorial
During his 1960 presidential campaign, John F. Kennedy challenged Americans to serve abroad and contribute their skills to communities in developing nations. The idea captured the imagination of thousands of young people and became one of the defining programs of his presidency. On March 1, 1961, President Kennedy established the Peace Corps by executive order, appointing his brother-in-law, R. Sargent Shriver, as its first director.
Peace Corps volunteers have since worked alongside local communities around the world in education, agriculture, health, environmental conservation and economic development. Beyond providing practical assistance, the program was created to encourage greater understanding between Americans and people of other nations.
This memorial was placed in Hyannis to commemorate the Peace Corps’ 50th anniversary and honor President Kennedy, Sargent Shriver and all those who have served. Dedicated by the Returned Peace Corps Volunteers Association of Cape Cod, it connects Kennedy’s enduring call to public service with the Cape Cod community that played such an important part in his life.
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St. Francis Xavier Church
St. Francis Xavier Church stands on South Street in Hyannis, its white clapboard exterior, columned entrance and restrained design reflecting the traditions of many New England churches. Although it has long served the surrounding Catholic community, it also became closely associated with the Kennedy family during their summers at Hyannis Port. President John F. Kennedy […]
Hyannis Armory
The Hyannis Armory was built in 1958 for the Massachusetts Army National Guard and originally housed Battery D of the 685th Antiaircraft Artillery Battalion. Only two years after its completion, the modest military building became the setting for an important moment in American presidential history. During the 1960 presidential election, John F. Kennedy and his […]
John F. Kennedy Museum
I grew up in a family that greatly admired the Kennedys. My mother kept a bust of President John F. Kennedy on our mantel, and there was little we did not know about the family and its many branches. Over the years, I visited numerous places associated with the Kennedys, so traveling to Hyannis and […]
