San Saba Celebrates Legacy: American Legion Post 27

Held at 209 East Brown Street, the event began at 10:00 a.m. with Jerry Blankenship, representing the San Saba County Historical Commission, serving as Master of Ceremonies. C.K. Stevenson, First Vice Commander of Post 27, delivered an opening prayer. Post Commander Jan K. Huffstetler then led the pledges to the U.S. and Texas flags. County Judge Jody Fauley offered warm welcome remarks, emphasizing the marker's role in preserving local history. Department Commander Richard Huntley followed with insights into the origins of the American Legion, founded in 1919 to support World War I veterans. Don Gray, 21st District Commander, spoke on the Legion's vital contributions to communities, from youth programs to veteran advocacy. Sam Murray, President of City National Bank, shared personal remarks on behalf of the bank and the Murray family, whose legacy is intertwined with the post's history.

The highlight came as Huffstetler and Huntley unveiled the 27-by-42-inch marker, while Past District Commander Jeff Meurer read its inscription aloud. The plaque details the post's founding in 1919, shortly after World War I, when San Saba veterans were aided by the local United Confederate Veterans Camp No. 322. Named after Wiley B. Murray, son of bank president T.A. Murray, who died in France in 1918, the post received its charter on August 13, 1919—making it one of Texas's earliest. Early efforts included escorting repatriated remains of local fallen soldiers, forming a women's auxiliary in 1921, and community projects like Christmas gifts for children, patriotic school programs, and developing Mill Pond Park.

During World War II, members supported the war effort and later assisted returning veterans with G.I. Bill benefits. In 1946, the San Saba Vocational School for Veterans was established, with Legionnaires Ray W. Harris, Warden Terry, and T.A. Davenport teaching classes. The post's 1959 meeting hall became a community hub, embodying the Legion's pillars of service.

This marker is the sixth known Texas Historical Commission (THC) recognition for an American Legion post in the state, joining esteemed sites like Donna Border Post No. 107 (the world's first Legion-owned hall, marked in 1964), Hurst-Euless-Bedford Post No. 379 (2022), Hanson Post No. 54 in Amarillo (2011), Parramore Post No. 57 in Abilene (1998), and Hudgeons Post No. 230 in Hallettsville (2015). The THC's selective program honors posts with significant historical impact, and Post 27's century of dedication qualified it for this distinction.

Blankenship provided closing remarks on behalf of the Historical Commission, followed by Stevenson's benediction. Attendees then posed for photos at the marker and a group shot, capturing the camaraderie. Commander Huntley then presented Commander Huffstetler a check for $10,000 to assist victims of the recent flood in San Saba. Participants then headed to a local restaurant for lunch and a roundtable with Commander Huntley.

Texas Department Commander Richard Huntley provided remarks about the origins of the American Legion. 
He would later present a $10,000 check to the post to assist in flood relief.

Post Adjutant emphasized the event's significance: "This marker ensures our story inspires future generations." The dedication not only commemorated Post 27's past but reaffirmed its commitment to San Saba, where veterans continue to build community strength. As one attendee noted, "It's about remembering those who served—and serving those who remember."

Guest speakers of the dedication L-R: Jeff Meurer, Sam Murray, Don Gray, Jan Huffstetler & C. K. Stevenson.

That evening, the post hosted its quarterly meeting at the hall, starting at 5:30 p.m., with barbecue and pinto beans served at 6:30 p.m., complemented by member-brought sides. The gathering featured Boys & Girls State students from San Saba High School and welcomed all veterans, families, and supporters. For more information about belonging to the American Legion, call the post adjutant at 325-205-0180.