JFK's Farewell to Massachusetts Legislature
On this day in 1961, John F. Kennedy bade farewell to the people of Massachusetts and reminded them of the state's unique legacy. In a speech at the State House, the youngest man and first Catholic elected to the presidency quoted the words of John Winthrop in 1630, "We must always consider that we shall be as a city upon a hill—the eyes of all people are upon us." "No man about to enter high office in this country," Kennedy said, "can ever be unmindful of the contribution this state has made to our national greatness." He referred to the "enduring qualities of Massachusetts" — "they are," he explained, "an indelible part of my life, my convictions, my view of the past, and my hopes for the future."
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