FOND DU LAC – In February 1960, John F. Kennedy, then a U.S. senator from Massachusetts, embarked on a campaign that ultimately aimed for the presidency of the United States. On February 17, 1960, he made a memorable visit to Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, making stops that would leave a mark on the community and highlight issues he cared about deeply, notably water pollution. The visit came at a time when Kennedy was heavily campaigning for the upcoming presidential primary, and it provided an opportunity for him to connect with voters firsthand.
Before arriving in Fond du Lac, the Kennedy couple stopped at the apartment of H.L. Guth in Waupun for a quick coffee, engaging in casual conversation with the locals. Following this, he addressed attendees in Fond du Lac during a reception at the Retlaw hotel, where he was presented the key to the city by local World War II hero and City Council President James Megellas. Tom Kitchen, a retired history teacher, recounted that a vibrant crowd of a couple of thousand filled the Crystal Ballroom that evening, including a significant number of Republicans curious to hear Kennedy speak.
His speech, focusing primarily on the pressing issue of water pollution both on a national scale and specific initiatives in Wisconsin, resonated with many audience members. “Last year, the beaches of Milwaukee — a source of recreation and pleasure for thousands of people — were closed to the public. The reason: the water was polluted — it was unhealthy and unsafe,” Kennedy stated in his opening remarks. The speech aptly illustrated his concern for public health and environmental issues.
Interestingly, the Fond du Lac Commonwealth Reporter humorously reported an incident where Kennedy found himself locked out of his hotel room prior to his speech, dressed only in a T-shirt and shorts. He ultimately realized his key was in his trousers, a light-hearted moment that stood out amidst the serious tone of his political campaign.
Fast forward to today, in March 2025, the historical context of John F. Kennedy remains relevant as the White House has recently released tens of thousands of previously redacted files concerning his assassination that occurred on November 22, 1963. According to Josh Meyer, a reporter with USA TODAY, the newly revealed documents contribute to what is known about that tragic day, but they do not alter the longstanding belief that Lee Harvey Oswald was the lone shooter. This release comes as part of ongoing efforts to shed light on historical events that have long captured the public’s imagination.
In a somewhat larger scope, a 1993 commemorative effort focused on Kennedy’s assassination marked its 30th anniversary. Locals shared their memories of where they were when they heard the news of his death. Stan Gores, who managed the Fond du Lac Reporter at that time, related how the newsroom buzzed with tension as they rushed to adjust their evening layout filled with coverage of the shooting after learning Oswald was responsible. “That news turned my layout for Page One around, and we tried to keep holding off on the deadline until we got more news,” he described. Gores reflected on the emotional impact the day had on the community, noting it was “a sad day, difficult to understand why this young president was shot.”
Meanwhile, Allen Buechel, former Fond du Lac County Executive, looked back with a heavy heart as he recounted the somber atmosphere at St. Mary's Springs Academy the day JFK was assassinated. “It was a very somber class, and everyone was sort of reflecting how it would affect them and their futures,” he recalled. Both he and his sister, Joyce Buechel, who was in eighth grade at St. Peters, remembered Kennedy not only for his leadership but also as the first Catholic president, who had inspired many during his life.
The narrative of Kennedy's political journey does not end here. Following the Fond du Lac visit, he continued his campaign across Wisconsin, demonstrating his ability to forge connections with constituents. Kennedy’s next stops included Manitowoc on March 30, 1960, where he addressed local shipyards as part of his campaign tour, which further solidified his presence in the state. This particular visit unfolded on the eve of a critical presidential primary, demonstrating Kennedy's commitment to engaging voters directly.
As fate would have it, Kennedy was delayed when his plane was grounded due to fog, resulting in an unexpected trip via bus from Milwaukee to Manitowoc. Although he arrived 45 minutes late to a noon reception, his charisma and leadership were enough to ensure he made an impact among the Manitowoc populace. In addition to visiting the shipyards, Kennedy also made appearances at various local plants, demonstrating his solid grasp of issues that mattered to working-class Americans during the 1960 election.
Soon after, the nation would elevate Kennedy as the 35th president, and he would only be given a brief tenure of three years before the tragic events of November 22, 1963, claimed his life. The recent release of documents surrounding his assassination reflects the ongoing public intrigue regarding his legacy and the circumstances of his death.
In Oshkosh, Wisconsin, February 18, 1960, marked yet another occasion for Kennedy as he delivered a speech during a student convocation at what was then Oshkosh State College, shortly after announcing his presidential candidacy. His speeches often reflected an emphasis on improving relations with South America, indicating the breadth of issues he was involved with as he campaigned across the nation.
Today’s release of classified documents draws renewed attention to JFK’s life and presidency, further intertwining his historical significance with the processes of transparency that government undertakes. As historical narratives evolve through the release of documents, public engagement on the legacy of John F. Kennedy remains as important as ever, deepening the exploration of a leader whose life was a continual quest for progression.
