Transcript of note from Jacqueline Kennedy to Bernard Boutin, April 18, 1962

“Dear Bernie

           Here is a copy of a letter I just wrote to David Finley on the plane to Fla.

           I hope I didn’t say anything indiscreet – I love Mr. Finley but in a subtle way I was trying to show him what people can do if they put their minds to it.

           He is a most cultured man – preservationist – but if only he would act more forcefully – so much could have been saved. But he is too gentle to use power – or to be aware that he has it – even though his committee is advisory.

           So I wanted him to know about YOU – & next to me no one will be more appreciative.

                       Gratefully
                             Jackie

Transcript of note from Jacqueline Kennedy to Bernard Boutin, April 21, 1962

“Dear Bernie –

        Do forgive the paper – I enclose an article by Ed Morgan from todays Post –

        Do you have a say over the Capitol – Ever since we came to the W. House – I have known that Stewart – who is no more of an architect that Mugsy O’Leary – really must be replaced. H was only difficult when Sam Raeburn was alive. He has torn down so many lovely old buildings near Capitol – like tearing down Georgetown – painted over lovely old frescoes on Capitol ceilings etc. I think he comes up for reappointment when his term is over – Can you find out when that is & let me know?

        The new Capitol architect really should have a thorough knowledge of architecture & be a preservationist – also it helps if he is known in D.C. – or anyway has enough tact & strength to deal with Congressmen. Perhaps you can suggest one – if not I can secretly get a few suggestions – but lets make sure that when Stewart comes up for reappointment his name just doesn’t automatically go through –

        Also can you keep him from tearing down the remaining old houses for Library of Congress annex?

        Poor Bernie – you must be sorry you came through so brilliantly on Lafayette Square! but you seem to be the only person in DC who can accomplish this sort of thing –

Happy Easter
      Jackie

Transcript of note from Jacqueline Kennedy to Bernard Boutin, May 23, 1962

“Dear Bernie

            I was astounded & delighted to see the brochure for Lafayette Square – It is so sensitively written – I hope it will be published someday – so everyone can see it.

           If all this can really happen – & with you – I’m sure it can – it will be too good to be true – & everyone in the country who cares about our past will be so happy.

           It is fantastic you have managed to pull this order out of chaos.

           I suppose Mr. Warnecke is too busy – but ask him if he would like to be the Capitol Architect – or could he suggest a suitable person – qualities needed = sense of history – architectural training & tactful personality to get along with Congress. Tell him to keep this just between us – as when we find the right man we will make the big move against existing Capitol architect Mr. Stewart.

           All my inexpressible thanks Bernie – for saving the President from a situation that was becoming hopeless –

as ever Jackie

Transcript of note from Jacqueline Kennedy to Bernard Boutin, April 7, 1963

“Dear Bernie –

            I saw the AIH Journal Jan 1963 with picture of plans for Lafayette Square.

           I really am not pleased with the 2 big buildings behind the square – the windows are wrong.

           John Warnecke – now in Hawaii – wrote asking me if I would like to be kept up on the square gardens – & I said yes definitely & mentioned something to him about the big buildings.

           Before we go away for the summer – & when he gets back – could we discuss them. When does work start on the Square & when is each part of it – square
                                            gardens
                                            Court Building
                                            EOB Building
expected to be finished?

           Dont bother to write – but do get in touch with me so we can have an appointment together with Warnecke –
                      A million thanks
                                            Jackie

P.S. I also long ago asked him to do a bit of research & give us some ideas on the Pres. Library in Boston – so when he asks about that will you give him all the help you can.
Thanks again J.