State To Fund Restoration Of DeLand’s Historic American Legion Post

DeLand, FL – DeLand will get money from the state to restore the historic American Legion Post there damaged when a tree fell during a hurricane.

Around $100,000 was set aside for the American Legion Post in the state budget that was signed by Governor Rick Scott on Thursday. State Senator Dorothy Hukill (R-Port Orange) and Representative Dwayne Taylor (D-Daytona Beach) have been given credit for helping the Post and the city of DeLand get the funds for the facility, and the two have recieved thanks from DeLand Mayor Bob Apgar for their work. “This will continue the legacy of this historic African-American American Legion Post,” said Apgar.

According to Hukill, supporting the American Legion Post was important because the organization is involved in the community and helps veterans. “I’m so happy we’ll be able to preserve this historic landmark,” said Hukill. “This is a very, very worthy project,” added Taylor. “I was glad to be able to get the funding.”

The current building at 415 West Voorhis Ave. was built in 1954. It has since been recognized as a historic site by the city of DeLand. The building was damaged by hurricanes in 2004, and a large oak tree fell on the back of the building. Work has been done, but the back of the building where the tree hit needs a major overhaul according to Post Commander Charles Williams.

Williams plans to open a museum to show the history of African-Americans in the nation’s wars. “We want to tell the story of our involvement,” he said. “A lot of our history has been unwritten.”

Discussing the future of the Post, Williams said “I’m going to leave it better than I found it. Keep the dream alive and pass it on.”

Copyright Southern Stone Communications 2016 – Source link: http://www.newsdaytonabeach.com/wndb-news/state-to-fund-restoration-of-delands-historic-american-legion-post/

 

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