Remembering Rose Kennedy, Matriarch, Philanthropist, and Namesake of The Greenway

This Women’s History Month, we are reflecting on the life and numerous contributions of our namesake, and remembering Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy as an activist and inspiration to generations of families in Boston and beyond.

Inspiring generations through public service

Rose is remembered nationally and internationally as an author, activist, philanthropist and the matriarch of the Kennedy family, but her legacy stretches even farther beyond that. A native to Boston, she encouraged her children to lead active and engaged lives, to study and to contribute to society in every possible way. She inspired their interest in history, politics, geography, arts, and culture. She also worked prominently with multiple charities focused on supporting those with intellectual disabilities through acts of public service.

Rose Kennedy is a beloved Boston icon for her charity, character, and spirit. The Greenway carries her name and here at the Greenway Conservancy we frequently reflect on her belief that the natural beauty inherent in urban green spaces is instrumental in building our sense of shared community here in Boston for generations to come.

Did you know? Some noteworthy facts about Rose Kennedy

• Rose Fitzgerald was born on July 22, 1890, in Boston, Massachusetts. She came from a prominent Irish-American family, and her father, John F. Fitzgerald, was a U.S. Congressman and Mayor of Boston.
• In 1914, she married Joseph P. Kennedy Sr. Together, they had nine children, including future President John F. Kennedy.
• Rose was a proponent of mental health awareness. Her daughter, Rosemary Kennedy, experienced mental illness throughout her life, which led Rose to become an advocate for those with similar challenges. She played a key role in supporting the establishment of services for people with developmental disabilities.
  
• Rose lived to be 104 years old, passing away on January 22, 1995. She is remembered not only as a mother and wife but also as a significant figure who shaped the Kennedy family’s legacy of service to the nation.
• While we don’t know many intimate details of her personal life, Rose was known as an avid gardener who loved spending time outdoors in nature, and through her influence encouraged future generations of her family to spearhead environmental conservation efforts across the country.
• Rose also loved reading and strongly valued literature and education for women, emphasizing the importance of intellectual growth.

Carrying her legacy forward

Here at The Greenway, we’re grateful for the chance to acknowledge the important contributions of our namesake this Women’s History Month. We hope you’ll join us in remembering Rose Kennedy, not only as a loving mother and dedicated public servant, but as a woman who worked tirelessly to make the world around her a better place for generations to come. We’re excited to carry forward that commitment both this year and every year. Wishing you all a Happy Women’s History Month, and we look forward to seeing you on The Greenway this spring!