“Lyndon B. Johnson was a force of personality, a master of power and the political process, and had a boundless appetite for social reform. Intent on fulfilling the promise of America, he signed an unparalleled 200+ landmark laws during his five years in office,” says the website. “There is no question that our country still stands in the wake of LBJ’s America.”
It’s true. But his presidency was overburdened by the Vietnam War resulting in an ever uncontented public.
Walking through the galleries was like revisiting my childhood.
The first main exhibit was November 22, 1963. The exhibition depicts the tragic and historic event of President John F. Kennedy’s assassination and outlines the transition of power from President Kennedy to President Johnson.
In the White House Years, displays of gifts from heads of state filled a showcase. LBJ Ranch, where he spent more than one-fifth of his presidency, was known as the Texas White House. There he maintained the same pace as he did in Washington, D.C.
The Great Hall is at the heart of the LBJ Library. It features travertine walls, an engraved presidential seal, a mural, and a spectacular view of four floors of glass-enclosed archives.
On the 10th floor is a 7/8th scale Oval Office replica. It duplicates President Lyndon B. Johnson’s office in the White House.
The First Lady’s Gallery is a portrait of Mrs. Johnson’s legacy as a humanitarian, an unofficial diplomat, and a champion of the environmental movement.
Next is Lady Bird Johnson’s Office with bright orange furnishings.
Back in the lobby is a 1968 Presidential Limousine to use in his post-presidency. He used it mainly while he was in Austin.
There is also an LBJ Animatronic figure that I somehow missed, although I am told I should have sought it out.
The LBJ Library is located in Austin, Texas, just off I-35. For more information, click here. There are often traveling exhibits on the first floor.
Thanks for the revisit of LBJ! Like you, I enjoy visiting Presidential museums because they take back to that era. LBJ was a pretty controversial character, but what president isn’t?