Johnson City, Texas is the hometown of President Lyndon B. Johnson. Each year, many seniors make this Hill Country town their vacation and travel destination.

Johnson City TX History

When Lyndon B. Johnson’s grandfather, Sam Ealy Johnson, Sr., gave up his cattle-driving business (driving cattle up the Chisholm Trail had become unprofitable), he and his brother Tom sold out their interests to a nephew, James Polk Johnson. Johnson City was eventually settled on this land and named after James P. Johnson.

By the time of his death at age 40 in 1885, James Polk Johnson had built the first gristmill, the Pearl Hotel and had under construction the building (now the Johnson City Bank) that was to be a general merchandise store. This building came to have the first jail in its basement and served as the first Johnson City courthouse. Years later, Lyndon B. Johnson had his local offices in the building that was constructed by his second cousin.

President Johnson’s ranch at Johnson City became worldwide news as he entertained international leaders and conducted government affairs during his frequent visits. The President had an airstrip constructed so he could land right on the ranch pasture. After leaving office, President Johnson returned and managed the affairs of the ranch. Lady Bird Johnson made the ranch her principal residence until her death. Johnson later deeded the family property to the government creating what is now the LBJ National Historical Park.

Johnson City Texas – Popular Hill Country Vacation Town

Today, the Johnson ranch is a much-visited Historic Site, making Johnson City, Texas a popular tourist destination in the Hill Country.