Tuesday, December 10, 2024
Few people realize that a well-respected equestrian just happened to be one of the most illustrious First Ladies in the United States and has a little piece of her history deposited in the Coryell Museum and Historical Center.
Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy Onassis, better remembered as “Jackie,” was married to the 35th president of the United States, John F. Kennedy in 1953. She served as First Lady from 1961 to 1963.
Her love of horses began at an early age. Growing up with a love of riding, she first competed in horse riding events at the age of five. Through her college years, she continued to ride and compete in various events.
Following her marriage and being thrust into the political spotlight, she continued to ride when time permitted. Being a horsewoman, and being raised by a horsewoman, it was only natural that she would introduce horses to her own children. Ponies would often be seen trotting across the White House lawn.
When the Coryell Museum received the generous donation of well-over 6,000 spurs, it came with a pair which belonged to Jackie Kennedy – making them one of the more valued pair of spurs in the collection that Lloyd Mitchell amassed.
The Kennedy spurs are among the thousands of spurs on display at the museum.
Visitors are welcome to drop by the museum located at 718 E. Main to view the massive spur collection. Coryell Museum and Historical Center is open Wednesday through Saturday, as is the gift shop. Yearly, Coryell Museum memberships are $20 for singles, $30 for families, and $40 for businesses, which includes free admission to the museum, plus four newsletters. Of course, large and small donations are welcome at all times.
Coryell Museum offers area schools and tour groups a delightful, guided tour through the museum with docents at many exhibits. Call the museum at 254-865-5007 to plan a visit.
