Analysis
Contemporary press transcripts from the post‑inauguration press conference on Jan. 20‑21, 1961, do not contain the phrase about a “saddle horse,” and reputable biographies of Jackie (e.g., “Jacqueline Kennedy: The White House Years” and the White House Historical Association’s records) make no mention of it. The quote appears on numerous quotation websites without citation, suggesting it is apocryphal. While Jackie did express a dislike for the term “First Lady,” the specific wording is not documented.
Background
Jacqueline Kennedy was often asked about her role and title after JFK’s inauguration, and she did comment that she preferred to be seen as a private individual rather than a public title. Misquotations and embellished statements about public figures are common, especially when they fit a memorable anecdote.
Verdict summary
There is no reliable record that Jacqueline Kennedy ever said the quoted remark about not wanting to be called “First Lady.”