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Image courtesy of the Lyndon Baines Johnson Library and Museum.
Image courtesy of the Lyndon Baines Johnson Library and Museum.
The Butler Did It!
Image courtesy of the Lyndon Baines Johnson Library and Museum.
Image courtesy of the Lyndon Baines Johnson Library and Museum.

The Butler Did It!

Artifact ID1965.28.192
Artist (United States)
Date ca. July 1959
Medium Ink and grease pencil on drawing paper
DimensionsOverall H 20 1/2 in x W 14 1/2 in (52.1 cm x 36.8 cm )

Physical Description
Physical DescriptionOriginal cartoon drawing. Cowboy LBJ ("Senate Leader Lyndon Johnson) looks bewildered at his hat that has been shot full of holes. Behind him, a man ("Dem. Chairman Paul Butler"), smikes while he holds a smoking gun ("Attack on leadership") behind his back. In the background, two men peek out from behind a colonnade. Caption reads: "The Butler Did It!". Artist signature lower right: "Dobbins 7-8-58 The Boston Traveler".
Inscriptions and MarkingsHandwritten at lower right: "To the Senator - with a smile. From Jim". Handwritten at lower left in pencil: "[arrow up] Engraver: Please reverse lettering on Butler", "525" [underlined]. Handwritten across bottom in blue: "Ed Page" "102 lines Thurs P.M.", "July 9 - 59"
Historical NotePaul Butler was the Chairman of the Democratic National Convention and figurehead of the liberal voting block during the 1950s, which put him at odds with other Democrats who believed he alienated moderates and conservatives.
Additional Details
Custodial History NoteThe item was a gift from the general public to President Johnson during his term in office. It was received by President Johnson, until the President donated it to the Lyndon Baines Johnson Library and Museum in 1973.
Credit LineGift of Lyndon Baines Johnson
Use Restriction StatusRestricted - Fully
Use Restriction NoteCopyright or other proprietary rights are held by individuals or entities other than the LBJ Presidential Library and Museum. The LBJ Presidential Library and Museum does not warrant that the use of materials will not infringe on the rights of third parties holding the rights to these works, or make any representations or warranties with respect to the application or terms of any international agreement, treaty, or protections that may apply. It is your responsibility to determine and satisfy any copyright or other use restrictions. Pertinent regulations can be found at 36 C.F.R 1254.62.
Person Referenced Paul Butler (United States, 1905 - 1961)
Person Referenced Lyndon Baines Johnson (United States, 1908 - 1973)
Not on view
Place of Publication