Over A Century of Light
Long before the roads of La Vernia were paved and filled with the hum of automobiles, there was Brahan Lodge. Before internet, before air conditioning, before electricity, there was Brahan Lodge.
Established in the 19th century, the lodge was built from red sandstone transported by oxcart from a distant quarry. Completed in 1871, the building has witnessed the town’s growth and transformation, serving as a crucial gathering place for generations. Initially, it provided a space for a variety of essential services, functioning as a church, school, makeshift hospital during severe storms, and a meeting place for the Boy Scouts.
The walls of Brahan Lodge have echoed with the footsteps of men, women, and families who have been part of Texas’s storied past, including veterans of the Texas War for Independence, the American Civil War, and even modern conflicts of the 20th century.
Our namesake
Robert Weakley Brahan
Robert Weakley Brahan, born on June 9, 1811, in Nashville, Tennessee, was a significant figure in Texas history. A friend of Andrew Jackson, Brahan initially studied medicine but preferred the life of a planter. He married Martha Edwards Haywood in 1832 and moved to Texas in 1852, settling near St. Hedwig.
In Texas, he became involved in politics, serving as a delegate at the Texas Secession Convention and as a Bexar County Commissioner. Brahan was also appointed as a General of the Militia during the Civil War. He passed away in 1885, leaving a legacy honored by Brahan Lodge in La Vernia.
A Historic Site
Brahan Lodge is marked by a plaque from the Texas Historical Survey Committee. This plaque is a testament to the efforts made by modern masons, to preserve and maintain the cherished Lodge Building.
Brahan Lodge has endured through severe storms, floods, tornadoes, and even an earthquake! The Brothers of Brahan Lodge are dedicated to ensuring the building endures for future generations.
To find out how you can donate to the maintenance of our valued lodge, click the button below.
What Comes Next?
In a world that moves at a breakneck pace, Brahan Lodge stands as a poignant reminder of a simpler, more deliberate time. It contrasts sharply with the rapid development and modern architecture that now characterize La Vernia, yet it continues to hold a special place in the hearts of those who know its history.
The tradition of meeting by the light of a full moon, a practice started by the early Masons to ensure safe travel, still endures today. This ritual not only connects current members to their predecessors but also serves as a testament to the lodge’s enduring legacy.
As we look to the future, it is our collective responsibility to preserve this historical edifice, ensuring that Brahan Lodge remains a strong and vibrant part of the community for another 150 years. Its preservation is not just about maintaining a building but about honoring the rich history and traditions it represents.
