Show Barn

Inside the historic Show Barn

NPS Photo / Jack Burton

Quick Facts

Amenities

1 listed

Water - Bottle-Filling Station

Prior to the Show Barn's construction, the ranch's agricultural operations took place near the Texas White House. The cattle pens were attached to the old Martin Barn just west of the home. When Lyndon B. Johnson became president, the role of the ranch expanded. Daily presence and activity of guests, reporters, and US Secret Service increased.

Construction of the Show Barn began in 1964 and was completed in 1966. It was built on a hill and at an angle to take advantage of breezes for keeping the cattle cool and dispersing unpleasant odors. Constructed of metal trusses and H-shaped perimeter supports, the gabled building has open sides where the cattle pens are located. The office, wash rack, and storage areas have concrete masonry unit walls and concrete floors, whereas the open alleys and pens have an earth floor.

The Show Barn's primary purpose was the upkeep of ranch's herd of Hereford show cattle. Ranch hands could maintain both registered and commercial stock here.