Recently discovered home movie footage capturing President John F. Kennedy’s motorcade racing to the hospital after he was shot in Dallas will soon go up for auction. The 8mm film offers a rare glimpse into the chaotic moments following the assassination.
By August Roberts
A Unique Glimpse into a Tragic Day
On November 22, 1963, President John F. Kennedy was assassinated in Dallas, Texas. Newly discovered footage of his motorcade speeding down Interstate 35 to Parkland Memorial Hospital will be auctioned on September 28. Shot by Dale Carpenter Sr., the footage includes a striking moment of Secret Service Agent Clint Hill standing on the back of the limousine while Jacqueline Kennedy, in her iconic pink suit, remains visibly shaken. The film provides a perspective rarely seen before.
Footage with Historical Significance
Historians and experts who have previewed the film emphasize its unique value. Farris Rookstool III, a former FBI analyst and historian, noted that this footage fills gaps left by previously fragmented accounts of the chaotic dash to the hospital. The clear, detailed film offers a more complete look at the urgency of the situation, potentially altering how the events of that day are understood. The material sheds light on the critical minutes following the gunshots in Dealey Plaza.
A Family’s Forgotten Treasure
Dale Carpenter Sr.’s film had long been forgotten, until his grandson, James Gates, rediscovered it years later while sifting through old family footage. Initially, the early scenes showing the motorcade seemed unremarkable, but Gates was shocked when the camera captured the high-speed rush to the hospital on I-35. The image of Clint Hill trying to shield the President was particularly powerful. Gates later shared the footage with Hill, who was deeply moved by seeing the event unfold on film.
A New Perspective for Filmmakers
The film is set to be auctioned by RR Auction, and many hope it will be made available to the public afterward. Filmmakers and historians could greatly benefit from the new, uninterrupted view of JFK’s final moments en route to Parkland. The discovery of such rare materials continues to enhance our understanding of major historical events like the Kennedy assassination and provide fresh insights into their lasting impact on American history.
This rare film could offer new depth to the story of JFK’s assassination, giving historians and filmmakers a valuable resource for future projects.
Based on content from www.ctvnews.ca and additional research.