The Legacy of Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy

Throughout her life, Jacqueline Kennedy sought to preserve and protect America’s cultural heritage. The results of her work are still visible in Lafayette Square, across from the White House in Washington, D.C. While she was first lady, she helped to stop the destruction of historic buildings along the square, including the Renwick Building, now part of the Smithsonian Institution. In New York City, she led a campaign to save and renovate Grand Central Station. Today, more than 500,000 people pass through each day and enjoy its restored beauty, thanks to her efforts.

Jacqueline Kennedy captivated the nation and the rest of the world with her intelligence, beauty, and grace. With a deep sense of devotion to her family and country, she dedicated herself to raising her children and to making the world a better place through art, literature, and a respect for history and public service….she was a wonderful cook and below is a favorite recipe.

Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis’ Baked Beans
4 cups dry navy beans
1 small onion, chopped
1/4 pound salt pork, diced
3/4 cup brown sugar or molasses
1/2 cup catsup
1 teaspoon dry mustard
2 tablespoons salt
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 cup boiling water
1/4 pound salt pork, cut into strips

Cover beans with water in a saucepan. Bring slowly to a boil or soak overnight.

Drain beans. Cover with fresh water and simmer slowly. When skins of beans start to burst, the beans are sufficiently cooked. Drain and add onion, salt pork, sugar, catsup, mustard, salt, Worcestershire and boiling water.

Place in greased casserole and top with salt pork strips. Bake covered in a 200 degree F oven for 6 to 8 hours. Uncover for last hour of cooking. Add additional water or stock, if beans become dry.