The Texian. The Official Publication of The Sons of the Republic of Texas

Transcription

1 The Texian The Official Publication of The Sons of the Republic of Texas VOL V NUMBER 3 July 20 Tomball Mayor Welcomes the Sons of the republic of Texas On June 4, 20, Mayor Gretchen Fagan of Tomball gave a big welcome to The Sons of the Republic of Texas with an Official City Proclamation which proclaims June 8-9, 20, as The Sons of the Republic of Texas Days. The Proclamation was presented to SRT at a Tomball city council meeting on the evening of Monday, June 4, 20. The pictured SRT representatives received the Proclamation. (L-R) Tom Houston, First Vice President General; Tomball Mayor Gretchen Fagan; Denton Bryant, Chairman of the Texas History Essay Contest Award; Ron Brown, San Jacinto District Representative; John Meredith, President of the Lone Star Chapter #58 - Conroe/The Woodlands. David Hanover, KSJ The June quarterly meeting was proof positive that SRT chapters are hard at work, promoting the mission, purpose and goals of the organization. A special thanks to Denton Bryant for working with the Tomball Chamber of Commerce to proclaim June 8 and 9 as The Sons of the Republic of Texas Days in Tomball. Good publicity is hard to beat! If you are interested in becoming more involved in SRT or in reactivating a chapter, ask your Chap- Mayor Fagan made a special appearance at the Saturday morning Executive Committee meeting on June 9, at the Hampton Inn and Suites, Tomball. She read the proclamation to the attendees and welcomed everyone to Tomball. President General s Message ter President or District Representative about a Chapter Leadership Workshop in your area. Attending a workshop will provide an opportunity for you to learn more about SRT and ways to increase visibility in your community. For the first time in many years, we are embarking on a fundraising project to match a generous $ 25,000 donation from one of our members. Read about the Matching Challenge in this issue, and you will see that there is a donation level for every member! Progress reports will appear on the SRT website. For members without addresses, you will receive an information packet in the mail; please What s Inside Quarterly Meeting...1, 3 President General s Message Janet s Korner...2 In Memoriam...3 Texian Navy Day...4 Marshall Quarterly Meeting Matching Campaign...8 cont. pg. 3 use that opportunity to call or the SRT Headquarters, so your address can be added to the database and save future mailing costs. Prepare for another memorable quarterly meeting in Marshall, September 7-9. Plan on spending two nights, as the Edward Clark Chapter # 18 has Friday evening plans and a very interesting historical tour of the area on Saturday afternoon, immediately following the morning Executive Committee meeting in the historic Harrison County courthouse. Lake levels permitting, we will travel by barge on Caddo Lake late Saturday afternoon to enjoy a catfish dinner. cont. pg. 2 Eagle Scout Award...9 Three Legged Willie...10 District Workshops...11 Moses Austin Chapter...11, 13 Passing of a Knight... Battle of Medina...14 New Members...15 Calendar of Events...16

2 President General s Message cont. from pg. 1 Don t miss this year s Texian Navy Day, Saturday, September 15, on board the Battleship Texas. Come celebrate the memory and spirit of the small but mighty naval fighting force that helped to secure and maintain the independence of Texas. The Lone Star Volunteers and Texas Army will be out in force. Bring your kids and grandkids! Executive Committee God Bless Texas! New SRT MEMBERS Name Chapter Ancestor Hometown Janet s Korner By: Janet Knox Administrative Assistant srttexas@srttexas.org 1717 Eighth Street Bay City, Texas (979) Left to right front row: David Stone, Chaplain General; David Hanover, KSJ, President General; Tom Houston, First Vice President General; Robert Kendall, KSJ, Second Vice President General; and Janet Knox, Administrative Assistant. The next Quarterly meeting will be September 7-9 in Marshall, TX at the Hampton Inn & Suites, 5100 South East End Blvd., 59 S. North of IH-20) (903) Cutoff date August 7, 20, Rate: $89. + Tax, Conf # (GROUP CODE is SRT ) Please identify yourself as SRT! Left to right back row: Edward A. Heath, Treasurer General; Randy Pollard, Historian General; Bob Steakley, Secretary General; Joe R. Davidson, Executive Committeeman; Sam F. Clark, KSJ, PPG, Executive Committeeman. Remember: All active duty personnel, your dues are waived. Please notify SRT office by , postal service or telephone. District Representatives If you have not paid $10 for your 20 copies of The Texian you will have to view the issues on our website. If you have not received a notice about the Matching Campaign, please notify the office so that we can update your address and/or . Those members that have not paid their 20 dues are now considered delinquent and must pay a $50 reinstatement fee plus the $40 dues fee. Please note that any applicants for membership in the SRT must have 3 signatures of recommending SRT members. It is not necessary if the applicant lives out of state, but every applicant should affiliate with a chapter. This does not mean that they will have to attend meetings. Application must be typed and notarized and don t forget the check. Thomas Lawrence Driskell William Hampton Crockett, TX Douglas Clay Atnipp 1 Edward McMillan Houston, TX James David Niese 1 Richard Heath Sugar Land, TX Edward Ricardo Niese 1 Richard Heath El Lago, TX John Brevard Sample 1 Hobart Key Houston, TX Thomas Dwayne Chapman 5 Jackson M Fitzgerald Houston, TX Ernest Lee Kerr III 7 William Christian Menefee San Antonio, TX Charles Duane Lites 8 Robert E. Beaty Rockwall, TX Eric Stephen Sifuentes Benavides Tomas Galan Dallas, TX Craig Scott Evans Elisha Axley Evans Elgin, TX Danny Ross Jones Sylvanus Castleman Mansfield, TX John Lance Lundgren Willian Bailey Standifer San Antonio, TX Austin Lance Lundgren William Bailey Standifer San Antonio, TX Wesley Walker McCutcheon William McCutcheon Plainview, TX William Willis McCutcheon V William McCutcheon Plainview, TX William Willis McCutcheon VI William McCutcheon Plainview, TX Stephen James Pouncey Anthony Wayne Pouncey Louisville, TN Anthony Herbert Pouncey Anthony Wayne Pouncey Marietta, GA John Lawrence Raven, Jr. Ernst Raven Johnson City, TX Robert Eugene Scott Abner Kuykendall Tuson, AZ Travis Harold Scott Abner Kuykendall Uvalde, TX Jimmy Lynn Toungate, Sr. Meredith Ephriam Toungate Georgetown, TX Roland Morris Searcy, Jr. 14 Asa J Searcy Bryan, TX Alvin Leon Keller 19 Blassingame W Harvey Porter, TX Jordan Wayne Oliver 19 William Jordan Broaddus, TX Ernest Hudgins Bruss, Jr. 23 Andrew J Northington Scottsdale, AZ Christopher Edward Chapman 36 Harrison Ables McDonough, GA Mike Ferguson III 36 Samuel Houston Pate Crowley, TX Benancio Montalbo Trinidad 38 Juan Manuel Anastacio Montalbo Houston, TX John Franklin Kreis 40 Daniel Elam Sinton, TX Bobby Page Vernor 40 Caiaphas Kennard Ham San Antonio, TX Harold Eugene Dayton 54 William Ryan Hancock Burnet, TX David Cruse Cochran 56 Thomas Richardson Lufkin, TX David Fike Godfrey 57 Nathaniel (Nathan) Fike Lubbock, TX Right to left Front row: Bob Steakley, Frontier District; Joe Pyle, Piney Woods District; Arthur O. Evans, Gulf Coast District. I would like to thank you for the articles and pictures you are sending for your newsletter; they have been GREAT. I need YOUR help with articles and pictures. If your chapter has or will be celebrating any events PLEASE me at: srttexas@srttexas.org. I will be putting the October issue together for publication, deadline is September 13, 20. Right to Left Back row: Kenneth Pfeiffer, Heart of Texas District; John Knox, Post Oak District; John Homman, Lone Star District; Ronald W. Brown, San Jacinto District. (Not shown David J. Temple, North Central District, William D. Buddy Power, North East District and Robert Schuhmann, Brazos District). 2 15

3 Tomball Mayor Welcomes the Sons of the republic of Texas cont. from pg. 1 (R) David J. Temple, North Central District Representative, receives the oath of office from Second Vice President General, Robert Kendall, KSJ, at the June 8, 20, quarterly meeting of the Executive Committee in Tomball. Back row: (L-R) Bob Schuhmann, Brazos Valley District Representative; Robert Kendall, KSJ, Second Vice President General; John W. Knox, Post Oak District Representative; Randy Pollard, Historian General; Front Row: (L-R) Denton Bryant, Chairman Texas History Essay Award; and David Hanover, KSJ,President General (L-R) Denton Bryant, Chairman, Texas History Essay Award, Bob Schuhmann, Brazos Valley District Representative; Ronald Brown, San Jacinto District Representative; Tom Green, KSJ; Larry Hunt, President, Stephen F. Austin Chapter #7; Arthur O. Evans, Gulf Coast District Representative, David Hanover, KSJ, President General, and Randy Pollard, Historian General. In Memoriam Name chapter Hometown Jon Edward Abshier 35 Wadsworth, TX William Aldridge Cline 23 Wharton, TX R. B. Edmiston 38 Houston, TX Rev. C. Rogers McLane 36 Fort Worth, TX Ben H. Procter, Ph.D. 36 Fort Worth, TX John Ruffin Johnson, Jr. 48 Kerrville, TX Marion Gerald Jerry Spencer 36 Grapevine, TX 3

4 In and Around Texas Texian Navy Day on Battleship Texas By: SRT Texian Navy Committee On Saturday, September 15, 20, 11:00 AM, The Sons of the Republic of Texas (SRT) will host the second annual ceremony on board the Battleship Texas, thanks to the gracious sponsorship by The Battleship Texas Foundation and assistance from the staff of the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department. Organized by the SRT Texian Navy Committee, the ceremony will honor the men of the Republic of Texas Navy. During the program, the SRT Sam Houston Chapter #38 will honor the USS San Jacinto (CG-56) Enlisted Sailor of the Year. The keynote speaker for the event will be John Power, the author of The First Texas Navy (2006). Come and help celebrate the memory and spirit of the small naval fighting force and its role in winning and maintaining Texas independence from Mexico. In September 1835, the first naval engagement occurred near Velasco between the Texian privateer, the San Felipe, and a Mexican revenue cutter, the Correo Mejicano; the Correo Mejicano was forced to unconditionally surrender. Less than one month later, the first land engagement between Texian colonists and Mexican forces occurred at Gonzales on October 2, Historians have long credited the victory at San Jacinto, in part, to the navy s disruption of Mexican supplies and reinforcements, as well as supplying much needed provisions to General Houston s army. After San Jacinto, the valiant force continued to harass the enemy at sea, maintaining a watchful presence on the Gulf of Mexico. Dedication of Memorial Medallions Moses Austin Chapter # On May 5, 20, the Daughters of the Republic of Texas and The Sons of the Republic of Texas corrected a mistake made by the State in Arter Crownover, veteran of the Battle of San Jacinto, whose grave was never marked by the State of Texas, has now been duly marked by these two historical associations. Arter first came to Texas in 1820 with his parents John and Elizabeth Crownover. Two of his older siblings, John Chesney Crownover and Mary Crownover Rabb (m. John Rabb) remained in Texas and became part of Stephen F. Austin s Old 300. Arter, being only 10 years old, returned to Arkansas with his parents. The family did return 9 years later in 1829, becoming permanent residents of early Texas. Six year later came the Texas revolution, and Arter served in the Texas Army and participated in the final battle at San Jacinto. Arter married Levinia Castleman, daughter of another Old 300 family, Sylvanus Castleman, in After several years the couple ended up in what is now N.E. Blanco County not far from the old community of Click. Here Arter farmed, ranched and became a Methodist minister and a stone mason. He is credited with building the chapel in the Fairland Community. Apparently he was quite a stone mason considering the home he built and the Fairland chapel are still standing in perfect condition. Arter and Levinia raised 10 children, losing one son Jasper, in the Civil War. Jasper served in the Texas 2nd Cavalry, Co, B, under Rip Ford when he was killed and buried. His grave site is unknown to the family. We are presently doing a search for these locations. Arter was reportedly killed in a freighting accident in Levinia lived 7 more years, passing on February 7, They are buried in the Comanche Springs cemetery, Blanco County, Texas. Descendants of theirs are still farming and ranching parts of the original estate of Arter and Levinia established 150 years ago. NOTE: Battleship Texas admission fees will be waived during the time of the ceremony only. Stop by the ship s store to purchase specialty items prepared for this year s Texian Navy Day. For additional information, contact Ron Brown at: ron@ronwbrown.com, or call Battleship Texas Formerly USS Texas (BB-35) Battleship Texas State Historic Site 3523 Independence Parkway South La Porte, Texas (Photo taken during the May 19, 20, celebration of the 100th anniversary of the May 18,19, launching) 4 13

5 Passing of a Knight A Step Into the Past at the Quarterly Meeting in Marshall September 7-9, 20 The Edward Clark Chapter #18, Marshall, has great plans for you and your family. Make your hotel and group meal reservations now, and prepare to step back in time to some historic sites in Marshall and Harrison County! Go to the Next Meeting Info. tab on the SRT website. Plan to stay two nights at this most interesting quarterly meeting! CURREN ROGERS McLANE Knighted 1994 C. Rogers McLane of Fort Worth was born near Kingsville in 1923 and has been a life member of the SRT since He received his B.A. degree from Austin College, his M.Div. degree from Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary, and is a graduate of the Portuguese Language School in Brazil. He was a Presbyterian minister for 40 years before his retirement, and served as a missionary to Brazil for five years. In 1986, he was the Founding President of the Ephraim M. Daggett Chapter #36 in Fort Worth. He served for six years as Chaplain General, and served three years as chairman of the Education Committee, overseeing the Texas History Essay Contest for high school seniors. Perceiving a need, he designed and obtained The weekend begins late Friday afternoon at the historic Starr Home State Historic Site, followed by a group dinner at East Texas Baptist University. the rostrum drapes for the SRT bearing the seal of the SRT in gold on a blue background. These are being displayed and enjoyed by chapters all over the state. In 1996 he edited and published a Chaplain s Guide for the SRT and revised and enlarged it for inclusion in the 1998 Chapter Handbook. Rev. McLane served 24 years in the Texas Military Forces, serving 20 years as Chief of Chaplains, Headquar- ters, Texas State Guard, with the rank of Colonel. In 1986 Chaplain McLane was inducted into the Texas Guard After the Saturday morning meeting of the Executive Committee, the group will travel to the Scottsville Cemetery for a picnic lunch on the grounds. Hall of Honor at Camp Mabry, Austin. Sir Knight C. Rogers McLane a life member of the Sons of the American Revolution, he has served as State Chaplain of the Texas Society SAR, and was editor of the book American Chaplains of the Revolution, , published by the National Society, SAR, in Rev. McLane served six years on the DeWitt County Historical Commission and six years on the Tarrant County Historical Commission. A sixth generation Texan, Rev. McLane in 1998 was elected Knight Commander by the Knights of San Jacin- to. His service to the national organization and his local chapter have been outstanding. He and his wife, Barbara, have two daughters and a son. Their son, the Rev. Donald Rogers McLane, is a life member of the SRT. Sir Knight C. Rogers McLane passed away on June 7, 20. The T.C. Lindsey General Store, Jonesville, opened originally in 1847, and has been owned by members of the Vaughan family since Despite a move from its original location, the rise and fall of the cotton industry and the use of the store in several movies through the years, it has been in continuous operation since it first opened as the Jones Trading Post. 5

6 District Leadership Workshops Seeing is almost not believing at the T.C. Lindsey General Store! Many display items are not for sale at the general store but well worth seeing. A number of years ago, SRT held Chapter Presidents Workshops, intended to train new chapter presidents, as well as to provide a refresher course for experienced presidents. Second Vice President General Robert Kendall, KSJ, has created a broader, more inclusive version of the workshops. District Leadership Workshops are for chapter presidents and emerging leaders of chapters who want to find out more about the organization and the unrealized potential for activities and growth in chapters and local communities. In places around the state where there are no active chapters, the goal is for anyone reading this article to step up to the plate and contact your SRT District Representative to sign up for a workshop in your area. Most of the publicly seen activities of The Sons of the Republic of Texas occur at the local chapter levels across Texas. Ceremonies in your community that commemorate historical dates of the Republic of Texas can happen only with local volunteer effort. With good activities and publicity comes more interest from others interested in joining SRT. For active and experienced chapters and presidents, you may be contacted by your District Representative to determine if a workshop would be helpful to your current and prospective chapter leaders. Attendance by all members of small chapters or the core leaders of larger chapters is recommended. All it takes is one good idea to make a workshop worthwhile. The future leadership of chapters and the organization may be reading this article. Any member interested in becoming more involved in SRT should first contact his Chapter President. If you do not have an active chapter in your area, contact your District Representative. Contact information for both chapters and districts may be found on the SRT website: click on the chapter tab. Moses Austin Chapter Locust Grove Plantation 1846 (parts of the mansion have original or early 1900s rice mat floor coverings and wallpaper) Bestows Honorary Chapter Memberships In May, members of the Moses Austin Chapter #, Austin, travelled to the Agarita Ranch, outside of Lockhart. Special thanks to Mr. Chuck Leshikar, ranch owner and operator. Members gained an appreciation of safety standards enforced by re-enactors at special events. While at the ranch, the chapter presented two honorary chapter memberships. Mr. Leo Bush of Bastrop, became an honorary chapter member, in recognition of his service to the chapter over the years at memorial and dedication events. Leo is a true admirer of Texas, her history, and the men and women who founded the great nation called Texas. Mr. Charlie Watts of Austin received the other honorary chapter membership; Charlie is an experienced re-enactor, having served on numerous details in the Sons of Confederate Veterans and the Former Texas Rangers Association, both of which Charlie is a member. He grew up in Burnet, served in the U.S. military, and now works for the Austin ISD at Bowie High School. His son Shelby,, was present to see his dad receive the honor. Both of these men are very special to the chapter. The chapter also thanked members of the Moses Austin Volunteers, a local group of re-enactors whose goal is to add authenticity to memorial and dedication events held by the chapter. Thanks to all of these volunteers who contribute to the chapter s events. God Bless Texas The weekend is capped off by a Saturday afternoon barge ride on Caddo Lake, to River Bend Restaurant, for a catfish dinner. Caddo Lake, at Potter s Point, is the location where the ad-interim Secretary of the Navy (Texas Navy) Robert Potter was killed during the Regulator-Moderator War. Do not miss the haunting beauty of Caddo Lake in early fall! (L-R) From left to right: Honorary chapter member, Charlie Watts and Mike Young, Moses Austin Chapter # President (L-R) From left to right: Mike Young, Moses Austin Chapter # President and Leo Bush, honorary chapter member 6 11

7 The Sons of the Republic of Texas Quarterly Meeting Marshall, Texas Sept. 7-9, 20 Group Activities / Itinerary (hosted by the Edward Clark Chapter #18, Marshall) Friday, September 7, 20 5:00-5:30 p.m. gather at Starr Family Home State Historic Site (Starr-Blake Home and the Maplecroft mansion), 407 W. Travis St., Marshall (at the corner of S. Grove St. and W. Travis St.) 6:00-7:00 p.m. dinner at East Texas Baptist University - Phillips Dining Hall, 09 N. Grove St. (travel as a group from the Starr Home) (August 30, deadline for reservations, $20 per person) 7:15-7:30 p.m. visit the cemeteries (graves of Sam Houston s grandson, Edward Clark, and other notable figures in Texas history) Back to the hotel Saturday, September 8, 20 8:30 a.m. - Executive Committee meeting at the historic Harrison County Courthouse (all members are welcome and encouraged to attend!) Noon - board bus for Scottsville Cemetery, arriving at :30 p.m. for box lunch (August 30, deadline for reservations, $10 per person) Tour of Scottsville Cemetery for 30 minutes, departing at 1:15-1:30 p.m. 1:45 p.m. - T. C. Lindsey & Co. store, Jonesville, to visit for 45 minutes (2:30 p.m. depart for Locust Grove plantation) Arrive at Locust Grove plantation for one hour visit and 30 minutes at the historic cemetery 4:15 p.m. - depart Locust Grove plantation for Uncertain, at Lake Caddo; board the barge at 4:45 p.m. for ride to RiverBend Restaurant, 211 PR 2422, Karnack, arriving at 6:30-6:45 p.m. Depart River Bend Restaurant and arrive back at the hotel at 9:00-9:15 p.m. 7

8 Sponsors Needed for Matching Campaign of $25,000 Sponsors are needed to support The Sons of the Republic of Texas to meet the challenge to help match the gift of $25,000 from a member of SRT in support of annual programs which promote historical, educational and patriotic purpose, mission and goals of SRT, such as the annual Educator of the Year Award, Presidio La Bahia Award, Summerfield G. Roberts, and the Texas History Essay Contest Award. The Sponsorship levels are: $1000 The Battle of San Jacinto, April 21, 1836 $ 500 Goliad Massacre, Palm Sunday, March 27, 1836 $ 250 Alamo, February 23, to March 6, 1836 $ 176 Honoring 176 years of Texas Independence, 1836 to 20 $ 100 Texas Independence Day, March 2, 1836 $ 50 Siege of Bexar, December 5, 1835 to December 9, 1835 $ 25 Battle of Gonzales, Come and Take It, October 2, 1835 $ Other Special Remembrance A Certificate of Appreciation will be sent to you with your name and sponsorship level from The Sons of the Republic of Texas. Gifts are tax-deductible to the extent provided by law. The Sons of the Republic of Texas is a 501(c) (3), non profit organization recognized by the IRS. Gifts are gratefully accepted in the form of checks, cash, securities, IRA accounts, irrevocable trusts, insurance and other valuables. This special SRT matching campaign ends June 30, Please make gifts payable to: The Sons of the Republic of Texas 1717 Eighth Street Bay City, TX For any question concerning transfers or pledges, please call Special Giving Projects for SRT at

9 In and Around Texas Eagle Scout Award On January 8, 20, Philip Kirby Franke received recognition for his work in becoming an Eagle Scout, joining with his father, Ronnie Franke and his older brother, Stuart in accomplishing this notable distinction. His Court of Honor on that date was celebrated by family and friends at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center in southwest Austin. Philip s father has long been active in the Scouting program and was Scoutmaster for the Austin Troop 49 during the early period of Philip and brother Stuart s membership in Boy Scouts. Adding to the family participation in scouting was Philip s grandmother, Billie Franke, who was Philip s mentor, working with him on each step of his goals toward Eagle, just as she had done with Stuart some 18 months before. Philip s Eagle Scout Project was to build 8 bat nursery houses, each capable of holding several hundred bats. Philip had eager participation from a number of his Troop members in building and painting the houses. Six of these houses were installed on Robert and Nina Guinn s pecan orchard between Bastrop and Smithville. The houses were mounted on 16 foot steel poles that were buried about 3 foot deep and set in cement. The remaining 2 houses were donated to the LCRA McKinney Roughs Nature Park and have been delayed in installing due to the Bastrop fires. Added thanks go to the many folks who contributed funds for materials in making this project so successful.. An added highlight to recognizing Philip s accomplishment in becoming an Eagle Scout was the provision of a Letter of Commendation signed by SRT President General, Sam F. Clark, KSJ enclosed with an attractive certificate of recognition presented to Philip. Ronnie, his brother Mark and Philip s grandfather, Ron Sr., are members of the Moses Austin Chapter of SRT in Austin. Philip is a senior at McCallum High School in Austin and has been active every year in the marching band. Philip will be attending college in Texas this fall semester. 9

10 THREE LEGGED WILLIE CHAPTER ARCHIVES AWARD The Three Legged Willie Chapter Archives Award is given each year for the chapters that present the best record of activities for the chapter and its members. The award is divided by the size of the chapter so the smaller chapters are not competing with the large chapters. Chapter president and officers should be taking pictures and documenting all of their meetings and other activities of their chapters for calendar year 20. This may include but not be limited to pictures, grave markings, newspaper articles, patriotic days of Texas history, chapter picnics, chapter meetings, events the chapter sponsors in their town or city, speeches made at Texas historical events that members attend, birthdays of Texas heroes, chapter members attending in-town or out-of-town events that have to do with Texas history. Members are encouraged to take pictures of activities at the quarterly and annual meetings and include them in their chapter archives book. Rules should be followed which can be found in the SRT Procedures Manual for specific instructions. The Three Legged Willie Chapter Archives Award will be presented in three categories: Small Chapters, 1-50 members; Medium Chapters, members; Large Chapters, 150 members or more. All chapters are encouraged to participate. The Archives Book will be judged by a group of SRT District Representatives according to the rules in the SRT Procedures Manual. The winners in each category will receive a 20 Archives Award Certificate and will be presented a $100 check. The Three Legged Willie Chapter Archives Award is sponsored by Dale Williamson. It is named for his Republic of Texas ancestor, Judge Robert McAlpin Williamson who was known as Three Legged Willie. Patriot Dale Williamson has been very active in the San Jacinto Chapter No. 1 for the past 20 years. He has served in several officer positions and on many committees. He has participated with Tom Green, KSJ, on many flag programs that have been presented across our great state. Many flag programs require travel of several hundred miles and many times they present several programs in one day. The Three Legged Willie Chapter Archives Award winners for 2011 were: President Ron Brown, San Jacinto Chapter # 1, Houston, Texas Robert Bohmfolk, Alamo Chapter # 40, San Antonio, Texas Our Second Vice President General, Robert Kendall, KSJ, encourages all chapter presidents to submit your chapter s archives book at the next annual meeting. 10 Tom Houston First Vice President General The Sons of the Republic of Texas President George Nelson, William J. Bryan Chapter # 14, Bryan, Texas

11 District Leadership Workshops Seeing is almost not believing at the T.C. Lindsey General Store! Many display items are not for sale at the general store but well worth seeing. A number of years ago, SRT held Chapter Presidents Workshops, intended to train new chapter presidents, as well as to provide a refresher course for experienced presidents. Second Vice President General Robert Kendall, KSJ, has created a broader, more inclusive version of the workshops. District Leadership Workshops are for chapter presidents and emerging leaders of chapters who want to find out more about the organization and the unrealized potential for activities and growth in chapters and local communities. In places around the state where there are no active chapters, the goal is for anyone reading this article to step up to the plate and contact your SRT District Representative to sign up for a workshop in your area. Most of the publicly seen activities of The Sons of the Republic of Texas occur at the local chapter levels across Texas. Ceremonies in your community that commemorate historical dates of the Republic of Texas can happen only with local volunteer effort. With good activities and publicity comes more interest from others interested in joining SRT. For active and experienced chapters and presidents, you may be contacted by your District Representative to determine if a workshop would be helpful to your current and prospective chapter leaders. Attendance by all members of small chapters or the core leaders of larger chapters is recommended. All it takes is one good idea to make a workshop worthwhile. The future leadership of chapters and the organization may be reading this article. Any member interested in becoming more involved in SRT should first contact his Chapter President. If you do not have an active chapter in your area, contact your District Representative. Contact information for both chapters and districts may be found on the SRT website: click on the chapter tab. Moses Austin Chapter Locust Grove Plantation 1846 (parts of the mansion have original or early 1900s rice mat floor coverings and wallpaper) Bestows Honorary Chapter Memberships In May, members of the Moses Austin Chapter #, Austin, travelled to the Agarita Ranch, outside of Lockhart. Special thanks to Mr. Chuck Leshikar, ranch owner and operator. Members gained an appreciation of safety standards enforced by re-enactors at special events. While at the ranch, the chapter presented two honorary chapter memberships. Mr. Leo Bush of Bastrop, became an honorary chapter member, in recognition of his service to the chapter over the years at memorial and dedication events. Leo is a true admirer of Texas, her history, and the men and women who founded the great nation called Texas. Mr. Charlie Watts of Austin received the other honorary chapter membership; Charlie is an experienced re-enactor, having served on numerous details in the Sons of Confederate Veterans and the Former Texas Rangers Association, both of which Charlie is a member. He grew up in Burnet, served in the U.S. military, and now works for the Austin ISD at Bowie High School. His son Shelby,, was present to see his dad receive the honor. Both of these men are very special to the chapter. The chapter also thanked members of the Moses Austin Volunteers, a local group of re-enactors whose goal is to add authenticity to memorial and dedication events held by the chapter. Thanks to all of these volunteers who contribute to the chapter s events. God Bless Texas The weekend is capped off by a Saturday afternoon barge ride on Caddo Lake, to River Bend Restaurant, for a catfish dinner. Caddo Lake, at Potter s Point, is the location where the ad-interim Secretary of the Navy (Texas Navy) Robert Potter was killed during the Regulator-Moderator War. Do not miss the haunting beauty of Caddo Lake in early fall! (L-R) From left to right: Honorary chapter member, Charlie Watts and Mike Young, Moses Austin Chapter # President (L-R) From left to right: Mike Young, Moses Austin Chapter # President and Leo Bush, honorary chapter member 6 11

12 Passing of a Knight A Step Into the Past at the Quarterly Meeting in Marshall September 7-9, 20 The Edward Clark Chapter #18, Marshall, has great plans for you and your family. Make your hotel and group meal reservations now, and prepare to step back in time to some historic sites in Marshall and Harrison County! Go to the Next Meeting Info. tab on the SRT website. Plan to stay two nights at this most interesting quarterly meeting! CURREN ROGERS McLANE Knighted 1994 C. Rogers McLane of Fort Worth was born near Kingsville in 1923 and has been a life member of the SRT since He received his B.A. degree from Austin College, his M.Div. degree from Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary, and is a graduate of the Portuguese Language School in Brazil. He was a Presbyterian minister for 40 years before his retirement, and served as a missionary to Brazil for five years. In 1986, he was the Founding President of the Ephraim M. Daggett Chapter #36 in Fort Worth. He served for six years as Chaplain General, and served three years as chairman of the Education Committee, overseeing the Texas History Essay Contest for high school seniors. Perceiving a need, he designed and obtained The weekend begins late Friday afternoon at the historic Starr Home State Historic Site, followed by a group dinner at East Texas Baptist University. the rostrum drapes for the SRT bearing the seal of the SRT in gold on a blue background. These are being displayed and enjoyed by chapters all over the state. In 1996 he edited and published a Chaplain s Guide for the SRT and revised and enlarged it for inclusion in the 1998 Chapter Handbook. Rev. McLane served 24 years in the Texas Military Forces, serving 20 years as Chief of Chaplains, Headquar- ters, Texas State Guard, with the rank of Colonel. In 1986 Chaplain McLane was inducted into the Texas Guard After the Saturday morning meeting of the Executive Committee, the group will travel to the Scottsville Cemetery for a picnic lunch on the grounds. Hall of Honor at Camp Mabry, Austin. Sir Knight C. Rogers McLane a life member of the Sons of the American Revolution, he has served as State Chaplain of the Texas Society SAR, and was editor of the book American Chaplains of the Revolution, , published by the National Society, SAR, in Rev. McLane served six years on the DeWitt County Historical Commission and six years on the Tarrant County Historical Commission. A sixth generation Texan, Rev. McLane in 1998 was elected Knight Commander by the Knights of San Jacin- to. His service to the national organization and his local chapter have been outstanding. He and his wife, Barbara, have two daughters and a son. Their son, the Rev. Donald Rogers McLane, is a life member of the SRT. Sir Knight C. Rogers McLane passed away on June 7, 20. The T.C. Lindsey General Store, Jonesville, opened originally in 1847, and has been owned by members of the Vaughan family since Despite a move from its original location, the rise and fall of the cotton industry and the use of the store in several movies through the years, it has been in continuous operation since it first opened as the Jones Trading Post. 5

13 In and Around Texas Texian Navy Day on Battleship Texas By: SRT Texian Navy Committee On Saturday, September 15, 20, 11:00 AM, The Sons of the Republic of Texas (SRT) will host the second annual ceremony on board the Battleship Texas, thanks to the gracious sponsorship by The Battleship Texas Foundation and assistance from the staff of the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department. Organized by the SRT Texian Navy Committee, the ceremony will honor the men of the Republic of Texas Navy. During the program, the SRT Sam Houston Chapter #38 will honor the USS San Jacinto (CG-56) Enlisted Sailor of the Year. The keynote speaker for the event will be John Power, the author of The First Texas Navy (2006). Come and help celebrate the memory and spirit of the small naval fighting force and its role in winning and maintaining Texas independence from Mexico. In September 1835, the first naval engagement occurred near Velasco between the Texian privateer, the San Felipe, and a Mexican revenue cutter, the Correo Mejicano; the Correo Mejicano was forced to unconditionally surrender. Less than one month later, the first land engagement between Texian colonists and Mexican forces occurred at Gonzales on October 2, Historians have long credited the victory at San Jacinto, in part, to the navy s disruption of Mexican supplies and reinforcements, as well as supplying much needed provisions to General Houston s army. After San Jacinto, the valiant force continued to harass the enemy at sea, maintaining a watchful presence on the Gulf of Mexico. Dedication of Memorial Medallions Moses Austin Chapter # On May 5, 20, the Daughters of the Republic of Texas and The Sons of the Republic of Texas corrected a mistake made by the State in Arter Crownover, veteran of the Battle of San Jacinto, whose grave was never marked by the State of Texas, has now been duly marked by these two historical associations. Arter first came to Texas in 1820 with his parents John and Elizabeth Crownover. Two of his older siblings, John Chesney Crownover and Mary Crownover Rabb (m. John Rabb) remained in Texas and became part of Stephen F. Austin s Old 300. Arter, being only 10 years old, returned to Arkansas with his parents. The family did return 9 years later in 1829, becoming permanent residents of early Texas. Six year later came the Texas revolution, and Arter served in the Texas Army and participated in the final battle at San Jacinto. Arter married Levinia Castleman, daughter of another Old 300 family, Sylvanus Castleman, in After several years the couple ended up in what is now N.E. Blanco County not far from the old community of Click. Here Arter farmed, ranched and became a Methodist minister and a stone mason. He is credited with building the chapel in the Fairland Community. Apparently he was quite a stone mason considering the home he built and the Fairland chapel are still standing in perfect condition. Arter and Levinia raised 10 children, losing one son Jasper, in the Civil War. Jasper served in the Texas 2nd Cavalry, Co, B, under Rip Ford when he was killed and buried. His grave site is unknown to the family. We are presently doing a search for these locations. Arter was reportedly killed in a freighting accident in Levinia lived 7 more years, passing on February 7, They are buried in the Comanche Springs cemetery, Blanco County, Texas. Descendants of theirs are still farming and ranching parts of the original estate of Arter and Levinia established 150 years ago. NOTE: Battleship Texas admission fees will be waived during the time of the ceremony only. Stop by the ship s store to purchase specialty items prepared for this year s Texian Navy Day. For additional information, contact Ron Brown at: ron@ronwbrown.com, or call Battleship Texas Formerly USS Texas (BB-35) Battleship Texas State Historic Site 3523 Independence Parkway South La Porte, Texas (Photo taken during the May 19, 20, celebration of the 100th anniversary of the May 18,19, launching) 4 13

14 199th Anniversary of the Bloodiest Battle in Texas History The public is invited to attend the 199th anniversary of the Battle of Medina on Saturday, August 18, 20, at a site in Atascosa County overlooking the Galvan Creek, where we believe between 800 and 1,300 men died August 18, This was the bloodiest battle and largest loss of life of any battle in Texas history, and it occurred about 20 miles south of San Antonio, Texas. The ceremony will begin at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 18, 20, and everyone interested in Texas history is invited. Due to the heat, we will only be at the large Oak tree overlooking the battle site for about one hour so that each Society can rededicate their marker to American Revolutionary Patriot Peter Sides, the Sons of The Republic of Texas marker for Benjamin Allen, the Mayflower Society marker for Samuel Adams and all the other men who fought and died in this battle. The SAR, DAR, SRT, DRT, The Daughters of the War of 18 Society, and the Mayflower Societies will all re-dedicate their markers, making this one of the most honored and dedicated historic sites in Texas. Our combined Color Guard will present the Colors to begin the ceremony and fire a musket salute to all those who participated in this battle on both sides to conclude the event. Chief of the Caddo Nation, Rufus David will conclude the ceremony with a memorial ceremony. Everyone will then retire to Pleasanton, Texas, for lunch on your own, and then reconvene at the Pleasanton Church of Christ located at 1003 North Main Street for an air-conditioned history seminar from 1:00 p.m. to approximately 3:30 p.m. in the church meeting hall. The Atascosa County Historical Commission members will graciously provide us with refreshments in the afternoon at the church during the symposium again this year. The afternoon history seminar will present the latest research on the Gutierrez-Magee Expedition, which began 200 years ago this year, and the last battle of the Expedition, the Battle of Medina. Several speakers will be featured, including Robert Thonhoff, KSJ, the award winning author of several books, Richard G. Santos, author of 37 books, over 3,000 articles and dozens of documentaries and former instructor at Our Lady of the Lake University, Trinity University and School of Aero Space Medicine, Al McGraw, Archeological Studies Program for TxDOT will also speak on various facets of this historic era, Dan Arellano, author and historian and Tom Green promoter of the event. These are all great speakers and historians, so you don t want to miss this symposium. The Military History Coordinator for the State Historical Commission, Mr. William McWhorter is also planning to attend, as is Caddo Chief Davis, who will say a few words of wisdom. To reach the site for the 10:00 a.m. outdoor ceremony, proceed south from San Antonio on Highway 281 some 15 miles from the intersection of Loop 410 South and Highway 281, to the community of Espey, Texas, at the intersection of U.S. 281 and FM 536; then turn right (west) onto the Old Pleasanton Road, and then left onto Bruce Road where signs will direct you to the ceremony. For additional details, contact Tom Green, at (281) , or Cell Phone (832) Wear a hat and comfortable shoes and bring water and a lawn chair that will not easily sink into the sugar sand! The Battle of Medina was between the Republican Army of the North consisting of approximately a 1,400 men, called the Gutierrez-Magee Expedition by historians, and a Royal Spanish Army commanded by General Joaquin de Arredondo consisting of approximately 1,800 men. The Republican Army of the North was truly a diverse group, consisting of Tejanos, Native Americans, and adventurers from the U.S.A. along with at least one African-American named Thomas. This was at a time in history when only about 2,000 people lived in San Antonio, called San Fernando de Bexar at the time. At least 5 Patriots of the American Revolution were involved in the Gutierrez-Magee Expedition, and at least one of these Patriots, Peter Sides, fought and died in the Battle of Medina. Peter Sides, is one of over 50 Patriots of the American Revolution believed to have been buried in Texas. Direct descendants of Peter Sides are eligible for membership in both the Sons and Daughter of the American Revolution and The Sons and Daughters of The Republic of Texas. Some of the descendants of Peter Sides will be in attendance for the re-dedication of Sons of the American Revolutionary Patriot Grave Marker. A Grave Marker will also be re-dedicated by the Sons of the Republic of Texas for Benjamin Allen, as descendants of all the approximately 3,200 men who fought on both sides of this battle are possibly eligible for membership in the SRT and the DRT. One of our objectives is to honor the many other participants on both sides of this battle, which is the land battle with the largest loss of life in Texas history. Toward that end, descendants of the Spanish solders, Native Americans and the native Tejano participants have also been invited to attend this annual commemorative ceremony. Earlier in the expedition the Royal Spanish Army surrounded the Republican Army of the North for approximately four months at the La Bahia Presidio near present day Goliad, Texas. This is believed to have been one of the longest sieges in American military history, and is the reason the La Bahia Presidio flies the Emerald Green flag of the Republican Army of the North as one of the nine flags flown at La Bahia. Prior to the August 18, 1813 Battle of Medina, the Gutierrez-Magee Expedition formed the Republican Army of the North, and won all the preceding battles and declared Texas free from Spain, including a battle at Nacogdoches, a four month siege of the Presidio La Bahia, the Battle of Rosillo, and the Battle of Alazan. On April 6, 1813, Bernardo Gutierrez de Lara, and his junta, wrote and signed the First Texas Declaration of Independence. On April 17, 1813, the junta and Governor-Elect Bernardo Gutierrez approved the First Constitution of Texas in present day San Antonio. A ceremony is held each year in San Antonio commemorating these events. Come join us and learn more about this all but forgotten part of our history. 14

15 President General s Message cont. from pg. 1 Don t miss this year s Texian Navy Day, Saturday, September 15, on board the Battleship Texas. Come celebrate the memory and spirit of the small but mighty naval fighting force that helped to secure and maintain the independence of Texas. The Lone Star Volunteers and Texas Army will be out in force. Bring your kids and grandkids! Executive Committee God Bless Texas! New SRT MEMBERS Name Chapter Ancestor Hometown Janet s Korner By: Janet Knox Administrative Assistant srttexas@srttexas.org 1717 Eighth Street Bay City, Texas (979) Left to right front row: David Stone, Chaplain General; David Hanover, KSJ, President General; Tom Houston, First Vice President General; Robert Kendall, KSJ, Second Vice President General; and Janet Knox, Administrative Assistant. The next Quarterly meeting will be September 7-9 in Marshall, TX at the Hampton Inn & Suites, 5100 South East End Blvd., 59 S. North of IH-20) (903) Cutoff date August 7, 20, Rate: $89. + Tax, Conf # (GROUP CODE is SRT ) Please identify yourself as SRT! Left to right back row: Edward A. Heath, Treasurer General; Randy Pollard, Historian General; Bob Steakley, Secretary General; Joe R. Davidson, Executive Committeeman; Sam F. Clark, KSJ, PPG, Executive Committeeman. Remember: All active duty personnel, your dues are waived. Please notify SRT office by , postal service or telephone. District Representatives If you have not paid $10 for your 20 copies of The Texian you will have to view the issues on our website. If you have not received a notice about the Matching Campaign, please notify the office so that we can update your address and/or . Those members that have not paid their 20 dues are now considered delinquent and must pay a $50 reinstatement fee plus the $40 dues fee. Please note that any applicants for membership in the SRT must have 3 signatures of recommending SRT members. It is not necessary if the applicant lives out of state, but every applicant should affiliate with a chapter. This does not mean that they will have to attend meetings. Application must be typed and notarized and don t forget the check. Thomas Lawrence Driskell William Hampton Crockett, TX Douglas Clay Atnipp 1 Edward McMillan Houston, TX James David Niese 1 Richard Heath Sugar Land, TX Edward Ricardo Niese 1 Richard Heath El Lago, TX John Brevard Sample 1 Hobart Key Houston, TX Thomas Dwayne Chapman 5 Jackson M Fitzgerald Houston, TX Ernest Lee Kerr III 7 William Christian Menefee San Antonio, TX Charles Duane Lites 8 Robert E. Beaty Rockwall, TX Eric Stephen Sifuentes Benavides Tomas Galan Dallas, TX Craig Scott Evans Elisha Axley Evans Elgin, TX Danny Ross Jones Sylvanus Castleman Mansfield, TX John Lance Lundgren Willian Bailey Standifer San Antonio, TX Austin Lance Lundgren William Bailey Standifer San Antonio, TX Wesley Walker McCutcheon William McCutcheon Plainview, TX William Willis McCutcheon V William McCutcheon Plainview, TX William Willis McCutcheon VI William McCutcheon Plainview, TX Stephen James Pouncey Anthony Wayne Pouncey Louisville, TN Anthony Herbert Pouncey Anthony Wayne Pouncey Marietta, GA John Lawrence Raven, Jr. Ernst Raven Johnson City, TX Robert Eugene Scott Abner Kuykendall Tuson, AZ Travis Harold Scott Abner Kuykendall Uvalde, TX Jimmy Lynn Toungate, Sr. Meredith Ephriam Toungate Georgetown, TX Roland Morris Searcy, Jr. 14 Asa J Searcy Bryan, TX Alvin Leon Keller 19 Blassingame W Harvey Porter, TX Jordan Wayne Oliver 19 William Jordan Broaddus, TX Ernest Hudgins Bruss, Jr. 23 Andrew J Northington Scottsdale, AZ Christopher Edward Chapman 36 Harrison Ables McDonough, GA Mike Ferguson III 36 Samuel Houston Pate Crowley, TX Benancio Montalbo Trinidad 38 Juan Manuel Anastacio Montalbo Houston, TX John Franklin Kreis 40 Daniel Elam Sinton, TX Bobby Page Vernor 40 Caiaphas Kennard Ham San Antonio, TX Harold Eugene Dayton 54 William Ryan Hancock Burnet, TX David Cruse Cochran 56 Thomas Richardson Lufkin, TX David Fike Godfrey 57 Nathaniel (Nathan) Fike Lubbock, TX Right to left Front row: Bob Steakley, Frontier District; Joe Pyle, Piney Woods District; Arthur O. Evans, Gulf Coast District. I would like to thank you for the articles and pictures you are sending for your newsletter; they have been GREAT. I need YOUR help with articles and pictures. If your chapter has or will be celebrating any events PLEASE me at: srttexas@srttexas.org. I will be putting the October issue together for publication, deadline is September 13, 20. Right to Left Back row: Kenneth Pfeiffer, Heart of Texas District; John Knox, Post Oak District; John Homman, Lone Star District; Ronald W. Brown, San Jacinto District. (Not shown David J. Temple, North Central District, William D. Buddy Power, North East District and Robert Schuhmann, Brazos District). 2 15