5/6/18

MayFlowerSeries...Texas Lantana at LBJ Settlement

The Native Plant Society of Texas says Texas Lantana laughs at hazards that can wipe out lesser plants as it resists drought, heat, deer and salt.

From experience I know this to be true as a planter of Lantana in our family cemetery plot.  It thrives in full summer sun and heat, can be planted in poor soil and requires little water.

That exactly describes the conditions at Tamarisk Cemetery where my Texas ancestors, parents and other family members rest in peace. 

While driving through Johnson City, Texas, several years ago, I spotted the vibrant orange and yellow Texas Lantana at the Johnson Settlement Event Center. 

I had driven past it many times thinking someday I need to stop and go through the ranch like Settlement.  On that summer like day, the Lantana was calling my photographer name.

It turned out to be not only a flower photographers heaven, but also a history lesson for a Texas History buff.  My camera captured a plethora of photos I have used in my Tracks of My Texas Ancestors.  You see, LBJ's pioneer ancestors and mine were settlers in Texas in the late 1880's and 90's.  The Johnson's in Blanco County and my 2x Great Grandfather Pittman in the nearby hill country town of Mason in Mason County. 

Here is a collage I put together from photos taken at the LBJ Settlement Center.
I am so glad the Texas Lantana called my name that day.  I really enjoyed the LBJ's family history as well as all of the buildings and ranch setting displays that were once a part of the Johnson's home. 
Just look at Eliza...isn't she lovely.  Her kitchen was on display as well as her spinning wheel.  You know I was getting photos of them.

Oh, and there were more flowers...I mean after all, this is a Flower Series!
If ever you are passing through Johnson City, Texas, plan on walking the ranch of LBJ's ancestors.
HERE is the link to get you started.

7 comments:

  1. I'll have to add it to my vacation ideas list. It looks really interesting. My grandmother was a Bunton from Tennessee and a distant cousin to LBJ's grandmother. Thanks for sharing

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    1. Thanks Amy for leaving your comment. What a small world blogging can be! Your family line and ancestry history is quite fascinating and rich with history. I'm so glad you now know about the LBJ Settlement and do hope you get to visit it one day. Thanks for stopping by.

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  2. We went to LBJ RANCH a few yrs ago and there were several Fig trees there. Figs were ripe and we were told to eat as many as we wanted. O, they were sooooo good.

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    1. I bet Lady Bird was pleased with your visit and enjoyment of her figs.

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  3. How interesting, Sue. Texas certainly has a wealth of historical sites. Lantana is such a pretty plant. I love the hot colours!

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    1. Yes, Texas has many historical sites...I certainly have not seen them all, but perhaps one day. Lantana blooms in white and hot pink, too. I'll have to post them, too. Welcome back and thanks for visiting...I've missed you.

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  4. I love the Hill Country area. I've been to LBJ's ranch several times. Gotta love Lantana. Plan on planting some when we get to the farm permanently.

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Thanks for your visit & comment. I'd love to return the visit...please leave your LINK or click on over and comment on Where Bluebonnets Grow.