Ellis Island was the jumping-off point for millions of immigrants wanting something new. It’s where lifelong struggles began to gain approval and acceptance. The same issues I’ve faced in my life.
In 2013 proceedings to evict me pursuant to California’s Ellis Act were initiated. I was a senior citizen on social security who had lived in the same apartment for 40 years.
The potential histrionics of a courtroom battle were the inspiration for this blog. The most dramatic thing that happened, however, was the argument over whether the 15 days started tolling on a Tuesday or a Wednesday.
To hold the attention of my tens of readers as I awaited the next Perry Mason moment, I told tales of my life in San Francisco. Which evolved into tales of life in general and of my life today.
Eviction was not the end of the world. It was the beginning of the story.
Dear Mr. Lenwell – I just read with amazement the article about your eviction and possible selling of your Jackie Kennedy collection. I, too, am fascinated by the former First Lady of Camelot. My godmother, Olga Morgan, was her aunt via marriage (www.rhwestover.blogspot.com).
Although I never had the opportunity to meet Jackie, I have become good friends with her older step brother (Olga’s nephew) Hugh D. “Yusha” Auchincloss III. I’ve had the rare privilege on several occasions to visit Yusha at Hammersmith Farm where he still lives in the “Castle” the guest home on the property he would share with Jackie when she would make her yearly summer trips back to Newport until her death. You might enjoy this short docu-video I put together after a Christmas visit to Hammersmith last year: http://animoto.com/play/5GqnFHAj4zQ5WD47H8UzmA
Do you by chance own anything once owned by Jackie? I’d especially be interested in anything signed by her. Also, I have contacts at the Smithsonian who are interested in anything owned by Jackie, so that might be an option for some of your collection as well.
Best Regards,
Robert H. Westover,
Washington, DC.