By Abigail Stopka, Better Kenmore CDC
At 1090 Kenmore Blvd, situated between The Bank Lounge and Todd Young State Farm, sits the oldest organization still in operation on Kenmore Blvd. –The American Legion Firestone Memorial #449.
“A lot of folks think that the American Legion is just a bar for old folks to go drink,” said John Life – immediate past Post Commander & Post Adjutant of the American Legion #449. “I’ve been a member since 2007 and am currently 38 years old. I barely drink anymore, but I enjoy going to our post. We have built a family there. My children are members and enjoy going to the post as well.”
The American Legion post filed for its Charter in 1934 and opened in what many people know as “the house with the two cannons out front” on Kenmore Blvd. in the spring of 1937.
For 86 years it’s been a place for generations of veterans, their families, and friends to make memories. It’s also home to “the canteen” where you’ll find a fully stocked bar, a kitchen, a pool table, memorabilia, darts, and friendly faces.
The best part? You don’t need to be a veteran to join.
“Most people think you have to be a veteran to come hang out here, but that is not the case,” explained Shannon Schaffer, Auxiliary President & Canteen Manager of the American Legion #449 “We have a variety memberships at varying prices for veterans, legionnaires (family of veterans), and social members.”
Shannon and the members are working hard to build a community at the American Legion #449 and host brunches, monthly Euchre tournaments, a weekly happy hour, game nights, pizza nights, corn hole tournaments, annual picnics, and Memorial Day services – which includes placing flags on the graves of the veterans buried at Greenlawn Cemetery. Flag placement will happen this Saturday, May 27, from 8:30 a.m. – noon (and they could use some volunteers if you have the time – more info here)
“We are more than a bar,” John said “and I hope to continue the work we do for our veterans and community.”
The American Legion #449 is currently recruiting new veteran, legionnaire, and social members.
For more information, stop by the canteen at 1090 Kenmore Blvd. and ring the buzzer to be admitted.
The American Legion is open Monday through Friday from 2 p.m. – 10 p.m., Saturday 12 p.m.- 12 a.m. and Sunday 12 p.m. – 10 p.m. Follow the American Legion #449 on Facebook and stay up to date with all events and happenings.