The Hon. Harrington Lee “Hal” Gosling, who was a charter member, is the only man who served more than one term as Texas Press Association president.

He was elected at the second meeting held in Houston in 1881 and re-elected in 1882. He was the editor of the Castroville Quill.

While on an editorial excursion in California, he was appointed U.S. Marshal for the western Texas district. He served in this capacity from May 22, 1882, until his death in the line of duty on Feb. 21, 1885. As marshal Gosling was transporting two prisoners with his deputies, he allowed the wife and sister of the prisoners to sit beside them on the train. About four miles from New Braunfels, the family members slipped pistols to the prisoners and both shot Marshal Gosling, killing him instantly. (Source: U.S. Marshals Service)