The Origins
The San Antonio Bonsai Society organizational meeting took place on Aug 31, 1973 with seven prospective members in attendance. The meeting was highlighted by the election of the Society’s first officers: Charles Koll-President, Edith Sorge-Vice President/Program Chair, Carol Lee Klose-Secretary/Treasure, and Jackie Springer-Constitution and By-Laws Chairman.
Jackie and Bob Springer hosted the first formal meeting in their home on Oct 11, 1973. The San Antonio Garden Center was selected as the initial meeting place.
The San Antonio Bonsai Society’s first opportunity to present its talent came during the San Antonio Garden Center’s Spring Flower Show. The Bonsai members’ efforts were greatly rewarded. Participant members were awarded several blue ribbons and the Society won the Sweepstakes Award in Horticulture.
By the end of year one (Aug 73 - Jun 74), the Society’s success was reflected in a membership of 41 motivated bonsaists. The Society continues to enjoy steady growth each year.
In 1988, the San Antonio Bonsai Society, Inc. (SABS) hosted the Bonsai Club International 24th Annual International Bonsai Congress. The society hosted the Lone Star Bonsai Federation (LSBF) Annual Convention in 1996 and co-hosted the LSBF State Convention in 2002. Our society co-hosted the 2008 American Bonsai Society Seminar with LBSF and co-hosted the LSBF's 31st Annual Convention with the Austin Bonsai Society. SABS and LSBF are co-hosting the 2022 Texas Bonsai Convention.
The Society sponsors numerous events throughout the year, including bonsai shows, sales, auctions, workshops, field trips, and lecture/ demonstrations.
