Coming Soon
Cowboys and Presidents opens October 18



From Theodore Roosevelt to George W. Bush, United States presidents have used the powerful iconographic symbol of the heroic American cowboy to define themselves and their administrations to the nation and the world.

In this election year, this special exhibition explores the fascinating and ongoing intersection of cowboy culture and presidential politics in Cowboys and Presidents.

The exhibit illustrates how the press, foreign governments, and domestic political opponents have found cowboy imagery useful in critiquing presidential policy and leadership.

This timely exhibition includes many historically important images and artifacts that are associated with a host of American presidents, such as Benjamin Harrison’s longhorn chair; Theodore Roosevelt’s personal photo album of his ranch; Calvin Coolidge’s electric exercise horse and cowboy outfit; Franklin D. Roosevelt’s spurs — a gift from Roy Rogers; Lyndon B. Johnson’s famous Stetson hat; Ronald Reagan’s cowboy boots adorned with a map of Texas; Bill Clinton’s childhood drawings based on the film High Noon; and the Saddle of Independence, given to George W. Bush in memory of the 9/11 attacks.

Motion pictures, television, radio, and music enhance the exhibition and visitors are invited to cast their votes on thought-provoking issues in interactive voting booths.

The exhibit, created by the Autry National Center, will explain how the presidency became intertwined with the emerging image of a heroic American cowboy at the turn of the twentieth century and will explore the ways that U.S. Presidents have used this powerful iconographic symbol to define themselves and their administrations to the nation and the world

Admission to the Museum’s exhibits, including Cowboys and Presidents (October 18, 2008 - January 4, 2009): $7.00 for adults, $6.00 for seniors/military/college students (with valid ID), $4 for youth ages 5-18, free for ages 4 and under.

Local support: Albert and Ethel Herzstein Hall Fund.