Imperial Home Page -> Imperials by Year -> 1960 -> Jackie Kennedy
Photographer, Abbie Rowe, National Park Service/John
Fitzgerald Kennedy Library, Boston.
Special Thanks to Library Archivist Jim Hill.
For Mrs. Kennedy's use, the White House leased a 1960 black Crown Imperial Ghia limousine. Mrs. Kennedy was often photographed near this car. And it was, in fact, the lead limousine in President Kennedy's funeral procession.
Chrysler described these elegant vehicles in its advertising as follows:
"The styling theme of the Imperial line has been set against a background of sweeping length. Front end appearance is distinguished by a grille of unique texture, and refinement of detail has been executed in medallions, tail lights, and other ornamentation in keeping with the quiet dignity of this custom-crafted automobile.
The doors extend into the curve of the roof line and blend smoothly with its contour to add an original styling note and provide generous door openings for ease of entry and exit.
The distinctive stepped rear canopy is covered in black leather to match the black exterior paint on the limousine.
Two unique designs of interior trim arrangement have been specially created for the Crown Imperial Limousine. Available in either gray or beige, the designs are executed in the finest quality broadcloth. Glove grade milled leather, cabinet woods, and tastefully styled metal mouldings are used to accent the basic design. Sheared mouton carpeting in matching gray or beige covers the passenger compartment floor. Eight-passenger seating is provided by jump seats which fold flush with the compartment partition when not in use.
All chauffeur compartments are finished in narrow-piped black leather, and the floor is covered with fine nylon carpeting in matching black. Luggage compartments, too, are completely carpeted."
The car leased to the White House was uniquely fitted with a black interior exclusively for Mrs. Kennedy.
- - - UPDATE 2018 - - -Chris in LA brings us this update:
Joe Machado also has this update:
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This page was last updated December 2018. Send us your feedback, and come join the Imperial Mailing List - Online Car Club