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Deep Roots in the Texas Hill Country

President Lyndon Baines Johnson had a deep attachment to place, heritage, and nature. In particular, he had a deep connection to his beloved ranch in Stonewall, Texas—where he was born, lived, and spent over one-quarter of his presidency.

The ranch was his respite, but it was also his workplace: he held important meetings with his Cabinet, international dignitaries, celebrities, and friends.

Many of these events, large or small, were held outside under the Cabinet Oak, a sprawling live oak tree adjacent to the “Texas White House.”

The Cabinet Oak

This huge tree, approximately 300 years old, witnessed critical discussions that shaped the country—including discussions about LBJ’s landmark legislation.

These legislative accomplishments are as sizeable as the Cabinet Oak itself, with successes such as the creation of the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) and the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH)—the most significant programs of their kind in American history.

When a large branch of the Cabinet Oak fell in 2019, a new idea about its support of the arts took seed.

A Creative Way to Preserve History

The Cabinet Oak Project and celebration is hosted by the Friends of Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park, which supports the National Park Service which has provided ongoing financial support for the Park for 15 years.

All funds raised through The Cabinet Oak Project will be used to restore and preserve the Texas White House Complex, enhance the visitor experience, and to establish a future artist-in-residence program at the Park.