Kansas City Collections: Art, Antiques, & Jewelry
Sat, Jun 21, 2025 11:00AM EDT
Lot 3
JFK Signed 1963 Letter on Racial Discrimination
Estimate: $400 - $800
Sold for
$3,100
Sold Price excludes BP
Bid Increments
| Price | Bid Increment |
|---|---|
| $0 | $25 |
| $500 | $50 |
| $1,000 | $100 |
| $5,000 | $250 |
| $10,000 | $500 |
| $20,000 | $1,000 |
| $50,000 | $2,500 |
| $75,000 | $5,000 |
| $100,000 | $10,000 |
A typed letter on White House letterhead signed by President John F. Kennedy, dated June 15, 1963. The letter is addressed to Knoxville News-Sentinel editor Loye Miller Sr., commending him for an editorial advocating for racial equality. The original envelope is taped down to the back of the frame. The glazed frame measures 14 3/4" x 11 1/2".
Mr. Miller opened his editorial: "The time has come when Knoxville, an All-American city, opened up to all Americans." He went on to conclude, "Discrimination in use of facilities open to the public cannot be harbored by anyone who really believe in either the Christian religion or the Constitution of the United States -- or in democracy." Below is the President's response to Miller. The exchange was documented in a 2020 Knoxville News-Sentinel retrospective entitled "The News Sentinel and race relations in Knoxville in photos."
"Dear Mr. Miller:
I have seen the editorial which appeared in the May 15 issue of The Knoxville News-Sentinel urging the city to "open up" and admit all on a non-discriminatory basis to business establishments which serve the public.
The voice of a local newspaper can be one of the most powerful influences in aiding communities in meeting the legitimate desire of Negro citizens for equal treatment and opportunity. I hope that your efforts in Knoxville will be successful and commend you and your newspaper for the leadership you have evidenced in advocating a policy of equality for all.
Sincerely,
John Kennedy"
Condition
The letter remains in good condition, noting one faint spot along the "White House" header.
Overall Dimensions
Height: 14.75 in
Width: 11.50 in
Depth: 1.00 in
Available payment options
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