473
Tlie Knights of Colz1-mbt1-s Historical Commission
A. G. Decorme, S.J., Rev. Daniel J. Quigley, Rev. David Kirgan, and Rt. Rev. Msgr. Henry D. Buchanan, diocese of El Paso. Other members included are Dr. Carlos E. Castaneda, K.H.S., and Dr. Peter Guiday, Ph.D., LL.L. 1 In anticipating the termination of the work of the Histo~ical Com- mission with the publication of the seventh and last volume of the series of Our Catholic Heritage, some thought was given to the continuation of the interest in the history of the Church in Texas so admirably fostered by the unique work and sacrifices of the Knights of Columbus in Texas. There were those who suggested that an active society should be formed to interest students and historians in the further collection of documents. and in the publication of articles and pamphlets on historical subjects of general interest. It was at the meeting of the Historical Commission held in the Chancery Office of the Archdiocese at San Antonio, June 8, 1946. that His Excellency, the Most Reverend Laurence J. FitzSimon, D.D., Bishop of Amarillo, merged the various plans into one by suggesting that the Texas Catholic Historical Society, created by the Historical Commission in 1927, be so reorganized as to continue the promotion of historical studies, but independently of the Historical Commission. This society would represent all the Catholics in the State. There would also be provided the opportunity to have contact with every historical society in Texas. and with those in other States. In view of the action taken by the Historical Commission by which it relinquished its title to the "Texas Catholic Historical Society," His Excellency, Bishop FitzSimon, in consultation with His Excellency. Bishop Garriga, formulated the plan whereby this society would be spon- sored by the hierarchy of the Church in Texas, in order to give it author- ity, permanence, and legal standing. At a meeting of the hierarchy at San Antonio, April 8, 1947, the Bishops formed the "Texas Catholic Historical Society, Inc., and approved a tentative charter. The articles of incorporation, covering a term of fifty years. were signed at San Antonio on April 8, 1947. by His Excellency, Robert E. Lucey. S.T.D.. Archbishop of San Antonio; His Excellency. Christopher E. Byrne. D.D., Bishop of Galveston. and His Excellency, Laurence J. FitzSimon. Bishop of Amarillo. The directors of the corporation named were the Bishop Ordinaries of Texas. In Article II of the incorporation document it is stated that "the purpose for which this corporation is formed is the 1 Since 1952 the following State Deputies have i;erved: Reynaldo G. Garza. James F. Houlihan, and N. A. Quintanilla.
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