"Carol Doesn't Like to Wear Shoes"

ICYMI

I'm just a girl, standing in front of a boy with absolutely no prior experience in government, asking him to learn how a bill becomes a law before running for President of the United States of America.

• I went on the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum podcast. In the episode, I call archivists and librarians “earthbound angels.” That may sound like hyperbole, but to me, it feels like insufficient praise. They enrich our manuscripts with untold treasures, and they do the same for exhibitions curated by colleagues.

• Earlier this week: A Brief History of the Itty Bitty Titty Committee

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At the JFK Library, the archivists post a delightful array of “Staff Picks from the Archives.” This photograph and letters were included in their latest roundup. Papers of John F. Kennedy. Presidential Papers. White House Central Name File. Name File, 1961-1963. Hans. JFKWHCNF-1122-016. John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum

In 1961, Alan Hanscom, 7 1/2, wrote to President John F. Kennedy about the future. Like the children of John and Abigail Adams, Alan understood his family’s story was a part of the greater American story—and that required personal sacrifice. He was prepared.

“Doctor shortage?” No problem. Alan would become one.

Future First Lady? Carol, his little sister, was ideal. Alan and his brothers, who seemed to think it was a position for hire, were certain of it. Carol appeared amendable. She could see herself in the role—but in that vision, she was shoeless.

Papers of John F. Kennedy. Presidential Papers. White House Central Name File. Name File, 1961-1963. Hans. JFKWHCNF-1122-016. John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum

Caroline Harrison was the wife of Benjamin Harrison, the 23rd president.

In the end, however, it seems Carol refused to let her brothers, a dress code, or societal expectations define her future. There hasn’t been a First Lady named Carol since 1892.

See you soonish! Until then, you can find me on Twitter and Instagram, and the books we’ve mentioned on Bookshop and Amazon.