July 19th, 2010
LBJ Museum of San Marcos to go back to the 60s again

SUBMITTED REPORT

The Lyndon Baines Johnson of San Marcos will repeat its reflection back in time for a “60s Night at the Museum” fundraiser Friday, Aug. 6.

Last year’s 60s night get-together at the museum was a surprising success. Not only did it raise about $2,000 in badly needed operating funds, but it attracted a very enthusiastic crowd who clearly enjoyed sharing their memories of local and national events and the music from the era.

This year’s program, scheduled from 7 to 9:30 p.m. will again go back in time with 60s music and an abbreviated discussion of the era led by Dr. Ed Milhalkanin, associate professor of political science at Texas State.

HaleyAnna Finlay has joined the musical line-up for the evening. And Cheryl Murdock will return for her rendition of a Janis Joplin classic and more. Museum intern Hilary Baker will be staging a 60s fashion show.

A selection of artifacts of the music, literature, films and television from that colorful era will also be displayed. The audience will be asked to participate in trivia games based on the politics and culture of the Sixties both in San Marcos and the world with prizes contributed by local businesses.

Those attending are invited to dress for the era – not a requirement, but a fun possibility. Wine, coffee, cheese and brownies will be served.

Advance tickets can be purchased at the museum between the hours of 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. Thursdays, Fridays and Saturday, from members of the Board of Directors or at Sundance Records in Nelson Center or Wake The Dead Coffee House on Ranch Road 12 for $20. Those planning to attend may reserve tickets at the advance sale price by emailing director@lbjmuseum.com. Tickets will be $25 at the door.

The LBJ Museum of San Marcos, which opened its door to the public on Dec. 6, 2006, represents a major effort to preserve and share the important artifacts and documents of the man known as “the Education President.” President Johnson earned this honor by guiding through legislation that established a new standard in education and continues to have national significance today.

Johnson signed the Equal Opportunity Act of 1964 in order to broaden the opportunity for education and establish vocational training centers throughout the United States, including the Gary Job Corps here in San Marcos, Texas. In 1965, he initiated the Head Start program to assist pre-school children from low-income families, and signed both the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, the first general aid-to-education program ever adopted by Congress, and the Higher Education Act, which made it possible for countless Americans to afford college through the availability of federal grants, low-interest loans and work-study programs.

The museum’s permanent and rotating exhibits, educational tours and special events have brought a unique cultural experience to San Marcos, welcoming a number of visiting university classes, local private schools and public school groups from the area and even as far away as Houston. Collaborations and partnerships with Texas State, the Texas Historical Commission and various civic and cultural organizations have helped to foster an increased interest in local tourism development, historic preservation, and the legacy of Lyndon Johnson. What is now Texas State University-San Marcos remains the only university in Texas to have graduated a US President.

Facility improvement funding commitments received from the City of San Marcos and Hays County will allow the construction of archival and curation areas on the unfinished portion of the building’s first floor, the installation of a sprinkler system and elevator and finish out of the expansive second floor.

“Virtually ever since the museum opened its doors on Dec. 6, 2006, local citizens have inquired about the availability of the museum’s expansive second floor for use as a special event venue,” museum board president Pat Murdock said.

”People are seeking venues for large group gatherings, meeting areas that are located in the central business district. We understand that there is a significant need for such a space that might be used for art and historical exhibits, as well as special events,” Murdock continued.

“The renovation made possible by the city and county funding commitments will allow us to host regular lectures, panel discussions, special and traveling exhibits and other special events, as well as providing space for public access to a library and research facility that will house the many books and periodicals that have been donated to the museum,” she said.

For more information about 60s night, contact museum manager Bill Cunningham at 512-393-8828 or Murdock at 512-353-1943.

— FROM THE LBJ MUSEUM OF SAN MARCOS