IN McKeesport Spring 2014 | Page 42

inthe know Did you know? McKeesport Statue T Was One of the First to Honor JFK his past November marked the 50th anniversary of John F. Kennedy’s assassination in Dallas. Though that city will forever be linked with the slain U.S. president in an infamous way, McKeesport has its own connections that are both historic and fond. By Pamela Palongue Kennedy and Richard M. Nixon both visited McKeesport for an important debate on April 21, 1947. These two men, who would one day be President of the United States, faced off on the Taft-Hartley Act, a legislative bill that would limit the power and activities of labor unions. Kennedy opposed the bill in favor of more freedom for labor. Despite his efforts, the bill was passed into law just two months later. But for a brief moment, this small city by the river served as the backdrop for a national debate that took center stage in our country. This wasn’t the only time that Kennedy would visit our city. On Oct. 13, 1962, he again made an appearance in McKeesport as he toured several mill towns, meeting citizens face to face and shaking hands. By all accounts, people were impressed with his friendly and accessible demeanor as he took the time to greet each person with whom he came in contact. Sadly, it would prove to be his last visit as Kennedy was assassinated some 13 months later on November 22, 1963. McKeesport’s strong connection with the president continued even after his assassination. Then-mayor Andrew J. Jakomas proposed that a statue of Kennedy be erected. It is believed that the bronze likeness is one of the earliest, if not the first, full-body statues of President Kennedy erected in the U.S. The 9-ft. statue stands in Kennedy Park and features a somewhat stern-faced Kennedy, clutching a satchel under his arm. ■ Did You Know? We are looking for little-known facts, history or other interesting stories about your community. Please send your ideas to [email protected]. 40 724.942.0940 to advertise | McKeesport Area