Interview with Linda Jane Holden, February 23, 2019
Project: Bess Abell Oral History Project
Interview Summary
Linda Jane Holden, author of a book on American presidents' gardens, begins the interview by detailing her personal background. Holden remembers when she met Bess Abell in order to conduct research for her book. Holden recalls what Bess told her in these conversations, including information about the White House Children's Garden and the Lady Bird Special campaign tour. Holden details the working relationship between Bess Abell and Liz Carpenter, Press Secretary to Lady Bird Johnson. Bess' role in wedding planning for President Johnson's daughters is explored. Additionally, Bess' accent is discussed. Holden articulates what it meant to her to have the opportunity to meet Bess. Holden's work in the White House is briefly mentioned. Bess' work in creating a signature dessert for Lady Bird Johnson to serve in the White House is considered. Holden recalls her first impressions of Bess. Holden talks of her involvement in Bess' garden club. Bess' skillset as a social secretary is examined. Holden discusses Bess as a role model for women today. Holden describes the process behind writing her book, including important people she encountered while conducting research. White House staff dynamics are assessed. Holden concludes the interview with her memories of Bunny Mellon, whom she got to know when conducing research for her book.Interview Accession
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Politicians Washington (D.C.) Potomac (Md.) Gardens Gardening Travel Weddings Presidents Staff Montgomery County (Md.)Interview Rights
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Interviews may only be reproduced with permission from Louie B. Nunn Center for Oral History, University of Kentucky Libraries.Restriction
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All rights to the interviews, including but not restricted to legal title, copyrights and literary property rights, have been transferred to the University of Kentucky Libraries.
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Holden, Linda Jane Interview by Brien Williams. 23 Feb. 2019. Lexington, KY: Louie B. Nunn Center for Oral History, University of Kentucky Libraries.
Holden, L.J. (2019, February 23). Interview by B. Williams. Bess Abell Oral History Project. Louie B. Nunn Center for Oral History, University of Kentucky Libraries, Lexington.
Holden, Linda Jane, interview by Brien Williams. February 23, 2019, Bess Abell Oral History Project, Louie B. Nunn Center for Oral History, University of Kentucky Libraries.
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