June 2001

Re: Message from LAM President Glenn Kaminsky

The SPJST Library, Archives and Museum (LAM) in Temple, Texas is a "must-see" for visitors to the city and state. Through its varied collections, the SPJST LAM seeks to preserve the culture, the memories and the proud history of Texans of Czech ancestry. Moreover, it stands as a tribute to the pioneer spirit, resourcefulness and valor of our Texas forefathers and mothers. The library contains more than 23,000 books and manuscripts. There is also an extensive collection of genealogical texts and research materials.

Credit goes to past SPJST Supreme Lodge President Nick A. Morris for his work in the early 1960s in starting the SPJST Library collection and to Otto Hanus for his diligence as the SPJST Museum's first curator. The lion's share of thanks for building the collection goes to SPJST members and friends who have donated many thousands of artifacts and books. The SPJST LAM has been at its present location in the SPJST Home Office since 1971. Evaluating the growth and planning for the future of the SPJST LAM was the subject of considerable focus in the 1990s. Delegates to the 1992 SPJST Convention in Victoria established a committee to make suggestions regarding the long-term goals and objectives of the SPJST LAM. In its report to the 1996 SPJST Convention, the committee, chaired by Thelma Hrncir, issued several far-reaching recommendations aimed at continuing efforts "to keep the museum alive, dynamic and creative - even visionary."

The SPJST Supreme Lodge, at its meeting in January 2000, voted to establish a non-profit corporation to promote the growth and development of the SPJST LAM. The SPJST LAM received a Certificate of Incorporation by the State of Texas Secretary of State's office on April 13, 2000.

Delegates to the 2000 SPJST Convention in June voted to ratify the actions of the Supreme Lodge. Following this decision, delegates received a surprise announcement from retiring SPJST District Five Director Louis Hanus. Brother Hanus presented the LAM with a personal check for $100,000 to apply toward the project - seed money for the future.

Over the years, the SPJST LAM has been a labor of love for many people. It's still that way. Now we are working to see that the SPJST LAM is fully utilized as an educational tool and are planning to expand the scope of the project. We want to be the corridor that connects our heritage to the future.

Our Mission Statement is as follows: The SPJST Library, Archives and Museum is dedicated to fostering educational, cultural and genealogical opportunities. It accomplishes this by providing genealogical research opportunities, sponsoring educational programs, collecting, exhibiting and preserving artifacts to implement the programs. The LAM extensively researches the authenticity of the collections and all presentations.

In line with this mission, we are actively seeking new acquisitions for the SPJST LAM and exploring options for growth. We welcome your involvement! Our hope is that these efforts result in a dynamic museum and library program that stays true to the spirit in which the SPJST LAM was conceived nearly a half century ago.

Glenn Kaminsky, LAM President

SPJST LAM purchases historical Temple building

Meeting at the SPJST Home Office in Temple on July 18, SPJST Library, Archives and Museum (LAM) directors purchased the historic 6,900 square-foot Northside Community Center located at the intersection of West French and North Third Streets in Temple. Plans are to develop the building and site - which is adjacent to the SPJST Home Office - as a hub of operations for the SPJST LAM.

The decision to proceed with the purchase was made possible - in large part - to a check for $135,000 presented to LAM Directors during the meeting by Honorary District Five Director Louis Hanus of Houston. This is the second significant gift made by Mr. Hanus to the LAM. Minutes after delegates to the SPJST's 2000 Convention voted to ratify the decision to establish the SPJST Library, Archives and Museum as an independent, non-profit corporation, Mr. Hanus presented the LAM with a check for $100,000.

It pleases me to no end that my wife, Oleta, and I are able to contribute to this worthy project and that the LAM directors are moving forward," says Mr. Hanus.

According to LAM President Glenn Kaminsky, many factors were considered in making the decision to purchase the building, which has been designated as the Louis and Oleta Hanus Building.

"The proximity to the SPJST Home Office was a consideration, of course," says Brother Kaminsky. "The building itself is an important piece of local history."

SPJST Legal Advisor Sidney Kacir was instrumental is assisting the LAM Board acquiring the building which was built in the spring of 1931 and originally known as Northside Community Center.

A Piece of HistoryDesigned by Eugene B. Church of Houston, the structure displays influences of Spanish architecture and art deco styling. Originally, the building housed six stores. Early tenants included a pharmacy, grocer and dry cleaner. In recent years, the building has housed a restaurant, antique shops and beauty salon. Two retail establishments currently lease space in the building. There are no immediate plans to release the tenants from their leases.

"Before anything goes into the building - whether it be books or museum displays - considerable work remains to be done." says Mr. Kaminsky. "We're looking at a thoughtful restoration process as well as securing the building and adapting it to meet the long-term needs of the LAM."

The property, which adjoins a lot belonging to the SPJST, offers significant development potential. "The decision to purchase the building was made with the best interests of the SPJST LAM at heart, says Mr. Kaminsky. "We're getting ready for what will be an exciting time of growth and development for the LAM."