Luther Ruins and the Bells

Lillie May Hagner-Saenger

San Antonio artist Lillie May Hagner-Saenger was the author of the book 'Alluring San Antonio Through the Eyes of an Artist' in 1940. She was also an etcher of Texas subjects.

On April 21, 1886, residents and dignitaries of Belton and surrounding towns joined officials of Baylor Female College, Waco, Texas, in laying the cornerstone for the school's first building. The three-story building housed the entire college: classrooms, offices, and living quarters of the president's family, chapel, and student dormitory space. A fourth floor was added in 1914. Originally known only as the "College Building," this edifice was named Luther Hall in 1919, honoring Dr. John Hill Luther, president of the College from 1878-1891.

In the early morning hours of January 26, 1929, the building burned. Although the structure was entirely destroyed, not one of its 200 residents was lost or injured. The remaining rubble was undisturbed until 1955 when a memorial was constructed on the site using stones from the destroyed building and replicating the arches of the original design. Through the years, this memorial has served as a favorite gathering place for students as well as being the backdrop for various programs, graduation ceremonies, and the annual Easter Pageant.