1967 Presidential Barbecue Event Re-Created on the LBJ Ranch

Guests enjoy barbecue and entertainment on the LBJ Ranch (1967).

LBJ Library photo by Robert Knudsen

News Release Date: April 28, 2008

Contact: Sherry Justus, [phone], ext. 245

On Saturday, May 17, Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park and the Friends of Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park are teaming up to create an authentic 1967 barbecue on the banks of the Pedernales River just as President and Mrs. Johnson did during the presidential years on the LBJ Ranch.

This special event begins at 4 p.m. with a social hour of music, exhibits, food and drinks as guests are welcomed by “President Johnson,” portrayed by actor Michael Stuart. Photo opportunities in a 1967 Lincoln convertible along with a ride around the ranch will be available. At 5:30 p.m., the Fort Griffin Fandangle takes the stage with Texas’ oldest outdoor musical, based on the pioneer chronicles of West Texas. This spectacle was presented at the original 1967 barbecue hosted by the Johnsons to honor members of the Organization of American States. Details about the show, which includes trail drivers, buffalo hunters and a stagecoach chase, are available at www.fortgriffinfandangle.org.

After the exciting show, a dinner of barbecue “LBJ style” will be served as the sun lowers across the river and old country western favorites are presented by the Bret Graham Band.

This magical evening is by reservation only. Reservations may be made online via
 www.FriendsofLBJNationalPark.org under the Activities tab. The barbecue is a major fundraiser for the Friends of Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park, who support the park by funding activities and educational opportunities free of charge to the public. The cost for this event is $85.00 per person if you are a Friends member at the Senate level or above. The cost for all others is $100.00. A Patron or Sponsor table with seating for 10 may be reserved for an additional $500.00. For more information, please call [phone], extension 222.

Also in May, the park will honor Vietnam veterans and their families with a special Memorial Day program in Johnson City (May 26). Coming up in June is the first of three “Movies Under the Stars on the LBJ Ranch” events, with the June 21 showing of True Grit, a classic John Wayne Western on a giant outdoor screen near the historic ranch airplane hangar. For more details about these and other LBJ Centennial events, please visit www.lbj100.org or call [phone], ext. 231.