Aviation: Key to the Texas White House

Aviation: Key to the Texas White House. Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park. In 1951, Senator Lyndon Johnson purchased 240 acres from his Aunt Frank Martin. Beginning with this core property, he set out to establish a home base where he could continue his work away from Washington. , , To improve access to the ranch, a 3000 foot grass landing strip was added in 1953. By the time Lyndon Johnson became president a series of improvements had resulted in a 6300 foot asphalt airstrip that was suitable for a variety of aircraft. The fast and efficient JetStar allowed Johnson to take his official duties home with him on a scale not seen before. , , President Johnson’s Texas White House had become a reality through the assistance of aviation. , , Major, I don’t know if you will appreciate this or not, but I’ve decided you are a can-do man .... I told [Secretary of Defense Robert] McNamara that I wanted you to be my pilot, and the JetStar ... to be reserved for my exclusive use. , Lyndon Johnson speaking to Major James Cross, 1961 , , (Bottom Center Photo Caption) , President Johnson greets Vice President Hubert Humphrey as he arrives at the LBJ Ranch. , , (Bottom Right Photo Caption) , President Johnson and his beagles, Him and Her, en route to the ranch from Randolph Air Force Base in San Antonio.