The EMK Institute for the U.S Senate Hosts Students at the Kennedy Cape House

(BOSTON, Massachusetts) — Today, the Edward M. Kennedy Institute for the United States Senate (“EMK Institute”), hosted its first event at the historic Kennedy Cape House since the announcement of its donation in January 2012. A group of 23 students and five teachers from Barnstable High School joined former Congressman Patrick Kennedy for an educational tour of the Kennedy Cape House.

“We could think of no better way to honor not only this historic home, but also my father’s dedication to education, than to bring high school students here as the first official visitors,” said Congressman Patrick Kennedy. “This house is so much a part of American history and we are excited to share it with the future leaders of our country. I am personally excited to be sharing my memories of our family and of this home with Barnstable High School students. We hope this is the start of a long cooperative relationship with the town of Barnstable and with students from across the country.”

The high school students were given the opportunity to learn about the enriched history of the home, view historic videos of major events that took place there, and take a tour marking the first time members of the public were given access to this American treasure.

“We fully recognize what an honor it is to have this historic home as part of the EMK Institute. Generations of Americans have grown up learning about the Kennedy family and the many great contributions they have made to this country,” said Lee Fentress, Chairman of the Board of the EMK Institute. “We look forward to sharing this historic home so that others may learn of the inspiring family that gave hope to generations of Americans. The Cape house will be an integral part of the mission of the Institute.”

The Institute is currently finalizing a team of experts in the preservation of national historic homes who will offer recommendations on future usage, programming and public visitations. Presidential historian Michael Beschloss, who will also serve as a general advisor to the Institute, will lead this panel. It is expected that the main Kennedy Cape house will host selected educational seminars and forums organized by the EMK Institute.

For a history on the Kennedy Cape House and more information on the donation of this home, visit http://emkinstitute.org/pages/cape-house.