Image of the presidential limousine on Main Street

Notice the driver's door open on the presidential limousine. This tactic was used in heavily crowded areas to move spectators farther back from the motorcade. This was necessary since, as seen in this photograph, the car stayed to the left, keeping President Kennedy as far away from the crowds as possible. This put Mrs. Kennedy, in the words of U.S. Secret Service agent Clint Hill, "in a jeopardizing position." Hill, as seen here, rode on the back of the presidential limousine whenever he felt that Mrs. Kennedy was too close to the crowds. - Stephen Fagin, Curator

This photo and the others taken from the Adolphus by Bill Beal is a remarkable photographic record for it shows people of all ages and races standing side by side waiting for that rare chance to see a president in person.  Dallas Police and reporters estimated the crowd along the motorcade route was somewhere between 150-200,000 people, which was nearly half the population of the entire city of Dallas.  Granted, some may have been more interested in seeing Jacqueline Kennedy than the president, but all took time out of their day to stand with others for a special moment.  The Adolphus Hotel balcony was removed years ago, but the hotel, just west of the Main and Akard intersection, offered a superb view of both the motorcade and anxious Dallas residents.  The assassination happened about two minutes after passing this spot. - Gary Mack, Curator

Since 1989, the Museum has recorded over 1,500 oral history interviews, many with Dallas motorcade spectators. The institution's ongoing Oral History Project continues to seek recollections on the life, death, and legacy of President Kennedy. If you recognize anyone in this photograph, or if you or someone you know caught a glimpse of President Kennedy in Dallas, please contact the Museum. - Stephen Fagin, Curator