Summer of 1945 was a significant season. World War II had just come to an end, and the air was heavy with change. Amidst this backdrop, 16-year-old Jacqueline Bouvier, who would later become Jackie Kennedy, spent her summer at The Homestead, a high-end resort in Hot Springs, Virginia. The Homestead was more than a mere vacation spot; it was a symbol of American luxury and a gathering place for the high society of that era.
The Homestead in 1945
Summer of 1945 was a significant season. World War II had just come to an end, and the air was heavy with change. Amidst this backdrop, 16-year-old Jacqueline Bouvier, who would later become Jackie Kennedy, spent her summer at The Homestead, a high-end resort in Hot Springs, Virginia. The Homestead was more than a mere vacation spot; it was a symbol of American luxury and a gathering place for the high society of that era.
Who was Jackie Kennedy at 16?
Long before she became the First Lady and an international style icon, Jacqueline Bouvier was a teenager navigating the complexities of adolescence. Raised in a privileged environment, she had a natural grace and poise that set her apart, even at a young age. Her upbringing emphasized the importance of education, and she was groomed to be socially adept and culturally aware. These candid snapshots taken during that summer are not just photographs; they are snippets of history that offer a glimpse into the life of a young Jackie Kennedy.
The Homestead Resort was and still is one of America’s timeless high-end resorts. Established in 1766, the resort has seen multiple generations of American elite grace its halls and grounds. For Jackie and her family, spending summers there was a longstanding tradition. The resort offered a variety of activities that catered to its wealthy clientele, from golfing and horseback riding to fine dining and spa treatments.
Jackie was an avid horse rider, and The Homestead provided plenty of opportunities to engage in her favorite sport. She was also a talented sketch artist, and the scenic surroundings of the Virginia landscape provided ample inspiration. Jackie’s love for literature, another lifelong passion, was evident as she was often seen with a book in hand.
