ARLINGTON POST 1302
55 Overlook Road Poughkeepsie, New York 12603


History of Arlington American Legion Post 1302

 

Thirty-one veterans decided to form a new American Legion Post.  On September, 1945, a temporary charter was issued by the Department of New York.  On September 2, 1946, a permanent charter was issued.  These members met in each other's homes, the old Davis Avenue School and Town Hall.

 

In 1950, Frank A. Hegeman loaned, without interest, $2000.00 to buy a home at 78 Haight Ave.  About 1953, a bar was built by Merle Rose and Philip DePuy. On April 21, 1950 the Post was incorporated.  A supplementary charter was applied for on April 9, 1956, and issued on April 16, 1956.

 

In May of 1957, the Post Home was burned.  Many valuable records were destroyed.  Again the members met in the Town Hall.  On September 23, 1957 this property was sold to Joseph Parmele for $10,000.00. 

 

On November 12, 1957 the historic Degarmo Placeon the corner of Degarmo Place and Overlook Road was purchased from Mr. and Mrs. Otto and Frieda Frank for $32,000.00 with a down payment of $16,000.00.  October 28, 1957, we moved into our new home.  Our first meeting was held there on November 11, 1957.

 

Robert Hoe Corporation donated the bar which was installed by Philip DePuy, Merle Rose, Oscar Addor, and others.  With the proceeds of a circus held in 1958, $1500.00 was paid to Frank Hegeman on the original loan.  In 1960 the remaining $500.00 was paid.

 

Sheriff Fred Close donated a flag and flag pole.  For several years and addition was discussed, so in 1967 a meeting room 45’ x 60’ was added to the rear of the present building at the approximate cost of $25,227.65.  On December 2, 1967 we held our first meeting in the new hall.  As of August 31, 1968 much more had been spent in upgrades.

 

On the 30th of June 1968, the Post Hall was dedicated as the “Wayne A. Whiteley Memorial Hall” in memory of Commander William E. Whiteley’s son who was killed in Viet Nam on January 6, 1968.

 

As of December 31, 1970 we had 458 paid up members.

 

Compiled by Katherine M. Howell   (circa 1970)