San Saba Lodge No. 225, A. F. & A. M.
Historical marker location:The history of San Saba is closely tied with the story of freemasonry in the area, as many of those who helped organize San Saba County were Masons. Local freemasons were already gathering as a group when the first county courthouse was erected in 1857 and the commissioners court allowed the Masons to meet in the new building.
Twelve Master Masons petitioned the Grand Lodge of Texas for dispensation to form a lodge; their petition was granted in May 1858. A full charter for San Saba Lodge No. 225 was granted in June 1859. Members of the lodge were county officials, community leaders, frontier trailblazers, Texas Rangers, sheriffs and Confederate soldiers.
The lodge first focused on the need for a public school in San Saba as members built a combination school and lodge hall. The Texas Legislature granted an official charter to the San Saba Masonic College in 1863.
Freemasonry grew in popularity and in 1863 the Royal Arch Masons were granted a dispensation for a San Saba chapter, remaining active until 1869. Despite a membership of 84 in 1879, San Saba lodge suffered the same financial hardships as most of the Texas lodges during Reconstruction. San Saba Lodge No. 225 surrendered its charter in 1882, due in part to perceived association with the San Saba mob, an outlaw vigilante group that terrorized the county during that era. A new lodge was organized in 1884, however, allowing freemasonry to survive in San Saba. (1999)
As one of the most visible programs of the Texas Historical Commission (THC), historical markers commemorate diverse topics in Texas history, including: the history and architecture of houses, commercial and public buildings, religious congregations, and military sites; events that changed the course of local and state history; and individuals who have made lasting contributions to the state, community organizations, and businesses.
The state of Texas was once an independent country known as the Republic of Texas. It gained independence from Mexico in 1836 and was a separate nation until it was annexed by the United States in 1845.
During the Mexican Texas era, San Saba County was a part of the municipality of Colorado and later, the municipality of Bexar. It played a significant role in the fight for Texas' independence from Mexico, with notable figures like James Bowie and Sam Houston having connections to the area. After the Texas Revolution, the county became a part of the Republic of Texas and underwent various changes in its jurisdiction before being officially organized as San Saba County.
Agriculture, particularly cotton farming, played a crucial role in the early development of San Saba County. The county's fertile soil, along with the San Saba River, provided favorable conditions for farming. The expansion of the railroad in the late 19th century further boosted the local economy, as it allowed for the transportation of goods and facilitated trade.
Over the years, San Saba County has faced challenges such as droughts, economic fluctuations, and changes in agricultural practices. However, the community has persevered and adapted, diversifying its economy to include industries such as oil and gas, as well as tourism. Today, San Saba County's rich heritage, natural beauty, and friendly community make it a charming place to live, visit, and explore.
San Saba County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of San Saba County, Texas.
- 1856 - San Saba County was officially established by the Texas legislature.
- 1859 - Fort McKavett was established near Menardville, bringing increased protection to the area.
- 1860s - The county faced conflicts with Native American tribes, including the Comanches and Apaches.
- 1870s - The arrival of the railroad led to economic growth and the development of towns like San Saba.
- 1882 - The County Courthouse was built, becoming a centerpiece of San Saba.
- 1900s - Farming and ranching became the main economic activities in the county.
- 1911 - The Women's Culture Club was founded, promoting education and cultural initiatives.
- 1930s - San Saba County was severely affected by the Great Depression.
- 1980s - The county experienced a decline in population due to economic changes.
- 2000s - Efforts were made to revive the county's economy, focusing on tourism and agriculture.