Pen used by President Lyndon B. Johnson to sign the 1964 Civil Rights Act
We collectors all have our treasured items. One item in my collection of political memorabilia that I treasure--but haven't seen in 25 years--is this one. It has been on loan to the Smithsonian's National Museum of American History since November 2000; I just renewed the loan this month for another 3 years.
About 50 years ago, when I was a precocious teen, I corresponded with a former U.S. Senator. After mentioning my collection in a letter, he sent this to me. He told me that it had been sitting in his desk drawer since it was given to him on that historic date, and that he preferred that it go to someone who would appreciate it.
Given that sentiment, I didn't want this pen "sitting in my desk drawer"--I wanted it on display where it could be appreciated. For the last quarter-century, I trust that has been the case with it nestled in the arms of the Smithsonian.
My thanks to the Smithsonian's National Museum of American History for providing me with these high-resolution exhibit photos this morning, which prompted me to share them.
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