Charles Perry Papers
Charles Perry, a trained musician from Cleveland, Ohio, wrote and composed “The Kennedy Prayer,” a dedicatory to John F. Kennedy upon the occasion of the latter’s assassination in 1963. Copies of the song were sent to Jacqueline Kennedy, Robert F. Kennedy, and entertainers, government officials, and heads of state. A copy of the song is also housed in the John F. Kennedy Memorial Library. The collection consists of letters and cards acknowledging receipt of “The Kennedy Prayer,” as well as a proclamation and a photograph.