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Experience history come alive March 14 as Texans gather to preserve the legendary SPJST Lodge 23, Moravia Hall.
The SPJST 129th Anniversary Celebrations runs from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. at two historic sites on FM-957. All event proceeds will support the vital restoration of Moravia Hall. This building was featured on the Texas Bucket List and Texas Country Reporter.
SPJST President/CEO Brian Vanicek hosts the event with Lodge 23, Moravia.
“If you have never been to Moravia, this is your grand opportunity,” Vanicek said. “We are keeping this hall sturdy and welcoming for the next century of community milestones.”
SPJST honors Texas’ Czech history with preservation as it reflects Moravia’s deep immigrant
roots.
In 1881, Czech immigrants Ignac Jalufka and James Holub relocated to a junction north of La Vaca County. They took ownership of a preexisting building and named the settlement in honor of their Moravian homeland.
SPJST Lodge 23 was established 16 years later as one of the original charter lodges of the Society. Since 1897, Lodge 23 has served as a sanctuary for the community’s cultural roots. Early members held lodge meetings in Czech, and you can still hear the language spoken today by locals.
Festivities being at 11 a.m., and lunch is available at noon with Tom’s BBQ. They will serve pork steak plates for $15.
Attendees can enjoy live music by The Czechaholics at the Moravia Store from 2 to 6 p.m. Local musicians Art Zarosky and Kendra Krupala will also play at the event at the Lodge Hall.
The Czech Heritage Museum & Genealogy Center will also feature a rare display of artifacts from Texas-Czech pioneers, guests can participate in a 23-prize raffle, silent auction, and various games.
“We celebrate a legacy where neighbors look after neighbors,” Vanicek said. “This anchors Moravia and SPJST today.”
The Moravia Store once served as a post office and saloon. It remains a link to the pioneer spirit of Lavaca County.
The Texas Historical Commission recognized the site with a marker in 1998.
Restoring the hall ensures its use for future generations. It stands as a citizen-made monument for shared purposes.
Lodge 23 is located at 11421 FM-957. The Moravia Store sits nearby at 11501 FM-957.
Don’t miss your chance to grab a plate, swing a partner, and save a piece of Texas history. For more information, visit spjst.org or call 245-773-1575.
Founded in 1897, SPJST is a fraternal benefit society committed to enriching the lives of its members and strengthening communities through fellowship, service, and financial security. With a strong focus on education, volunteerism, and meaningful member engagement, SPJST offers life insurance and annuity products along with youth and adult programs across Texas. Learn more at www.spjst.org.
Attendees can enjoy live music by The Czechaholics at the Moravia Store from 2 to 6 p.m. Local musicians Art Zarosky and Kendra Krupala will also play at the event at the Lodge Hall. Courtesy photo
