Interview with Lynda Johnson Robb, November 26, 2019

Interview Summary

Lynda Johnson Robb, the eldest daughter of Lyndon Johnson, begins the interview by describing Bess Abell and her interactions with White House social aides. Bess' personality is characterized. Johnson Robb then describes Bess' personality. Johnson Robb then discusses her wedding and the wedding of her sister, Luci. Johnson Robb recalls the founding of the White House Children's Garden. Johnson Robb also talks of the role of White House staff and their tradition of service over the years. Johnson Robb lists some of Bess' strengths as an employee. Johnson Robb tells some interesting stories of the Secret Service. Additionally, Johnson Robb remembers her interactions with East Wing White House staff. Johnson Robb recalls when Bess accompanied the Johnson family on international diplomatic trips. The book to be written about Bess by the interviewer is briefly discussed. Bess' overall style and fashion sense are examined. Bess' role in orchestrating White House entertainment for public events is discussed. Johnson Robb emphasizes the importance of social events for the Washington, D.C. political set. Bess' working relationship with President Johnson is examined. The interviewer concludes with remarks on his connections to Bess.

Interview Keyword

White House Bess Abell Lyndon Johnson Lady Bird Johnson Luci Baines Johnson White House Children's Garden East Wing Book Fashion Entertainment Politics

Interview LC Subject

Politicians Washington (D.C.) Personality Wedding Dresses Staff Federal government Secret service Travel Culture Johnson family Social

Interview Rights

All rights to the interviews, including but not restricted to legal title, copyrights and literary property rights, have been transferred to the University of Kentucky Libraries.

Interview Usage

Interviews may only be reproduced with permission from Louie B. Nunn Center for Oral History, University of Kentucky Libraries.