Historical Marker

San Saba Lodge No. 612, A.F. & A.M.

Historical marker location:
US 190, San Saba, Texas
( 9/10 mile east of San Saba Courthouse on US 190, north side of the roadway in front of the lodge hall.)
Marker installed: 2012
Marker size: 27" x 42"

SAN SABA MASONIC LODGE NO. 612 AROSE OUT OF A LONG HISTORY OF FREEMASONRY IN SAN SABA COUNTY. THIS LODGE, CHARTERED ON DECEMBER 11, 1885, WAS THE SUCCESSOR TO LODGE NO. 225 THAT WAS DISBANDED IN 1882 AS A RESULT OF FINANCIAL TROUBLES AND A PERCEIVED ASSOCIATION WITH THE SAN SABA MOB. THE NEW LODGE INCLUDED 21 NEW MEMBERS AND DISTANCED ITSELF FROM ASSOCIATIONS TO THE INFAMOUS MOB.

AT THE TURN OF THE 20TH CENTURY, ORDER MEMBERSHIP HAD GROWN ENOUGH TO CONSTRUCT A NEW TWO-STORY BUILDING AT THE 300 BLOCK OF EAST WALLACE STREET. IN THIS NEW BUILDING, THE LODGE CONTINUED THEIR COMMITMENT TO COMMUNITY SERVICE, HELPING TO ESTABLISH THE FIRST COMMUNITY LIBRARY AND EQUIP THE LOCAL POST OFFICE. UNFORTUNATELY, A FIRE IN 1909 DESTROYED THE ENTIRE BUILDING, INCLUDING RECORDS, CHALLENGING THE LODGE’S SURVIVAL. THE MEMBERS PERSEVERED AND HELD MEETINGS IN BROTHER T.A. MURRAY’S BUILDING WHILE NEW CONSTRUCTION BEGAN ON THE SAME SITE LATER THAT YEAR.

DESPITE PERIODS OF FINANCIAL PROBLEMS, PARTICULARLY DURING THE GREAT DEPRESSION, LODGE NO. 612 MAINTAINED ITS COMMITMENT TO CHARITABLE ACTIVITIES IN LOCAL AND NATIONAL CAUSES. TWO LODGES MERGED WITH SAN SABA LODGE; BEND LODGE NO. 1124 IN 1951 AND RICHLAND SPRINGS LODGE NO. 882 IN 2011. THESE HELPED THE LODGE INCREASE ITS MEMBERSHIP AND LEADERSHIP. ITS HISTORY REFLECTS THE CHALLENGES AND PROSPERITY OF SAN SABA COUNTY. LODGE NO. 612 REMAINS ACTIVE IN THE COMMUNITY, SUPPORTING PUBLIC SCHOOL EDUCATION AND UPHOLDING THE MASONIC TRADITION OF “CHARITY AND FRATERNITY.”

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.

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Founded in 1856, San Saba County is located in central Texas and is named after the San Saba River that runs through it. The area has a rich and diverse history that dates back far before its official establishment. Native American tribes, such as the Caddo and Comanche, inhabited the land long before European settlers arrived. Spanish explorers were the first Europeans to explore the region in the 18th century.

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.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history 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.