In May, 1952, Jackie Lee Bouvier and John Fitzgerald Kennedy were introduced at a dinner party in Washington, D.C.. After JFK was elected to the Senate in November of that year, rumor has it that he began courting Miss Bouvier in earnest. Though no one knows exactly when or where he popped the question, the engagement was announced June 25, 1953, and that weekend a photographer for LIFE Magazine accompanied the couple to document their celebration at the family home in Hyannis Port, Massachusetts.
These photos are so unique because they capture the young, up-and-coming couple at total ease with one another and their surroundings. There’s a certain youth and joy about them as they stride around barefoot in the house and on the beach, and we wanted to share a few of our favorites from this LIFE/Getty collection…
Jackie and JFK sit and talk with the LIFE reporter about their recent engagement. Everyone was barefoot all day, it seemed!
A joyful Jackie hams it up for the camera.
The young couple discuss the day with the LIFE reporter. Love her swimsuit!
Jackie at ease at the Kennedy home.
Jackie hanging out on the lawn with Jean and Eunice Kennedy.
(LIFE, 1953)One of our favorite photos of the couple hanging out on the beach.
Jackie and John toss the ball around with a young Ted Kennedy.
Walking back to the beach house.
Saying goodbye to the reporter. So funny how Jackie is standing with her hat strings!
(LIFE, 1953)
