On Monday, September 25, 2023, the Alsatian Pioneers Chapter of the Daughters of the Republic of Texas attended the Chartering Ceremony of the Henri Castro Chapter of the Sons of the Republic of Texas and hosted a reception which followed. Taking place at the Biry-Ahr Historical Center in Castroville, induction and chartering of the chapter was carried out by Past President General Sir Ken Pfeiffer, KSJ. SRT members from the Alamo Chapter and other chapters across the state took part in the ceremony, establishing the 61st chapter of this organization. Henri Castro charter member Les Tschirhart concluded the program with the Lord’s Prayer in Alsatian.
The SRT traces its origins back to April 1893 and the Texas Veterans Association, which was comprised of members that actually lived in the Republic of Texas. Members also consist of those who are direct lineal descendants of those who settled the Republic of Texas prior to February 19, 1846, when Texas merged with the United States as the 28th state.
Following the ceremony and reception, guests attended a film on the Alsatian Language Project at the newly renovated and re-opened Rainbow Theater.
Sons of the Republic of Texas Charter its 61st Chapter in Castroville
Henri Castro charter members present Scott Tschirhart, Doug Semlinger, Josh Kempf, Charles Schott, Les Tschirhart, and Jim Harton.