06/03/2026
From the Fentress Times article. American Legion Mark Twain Post 137 of Jamestown celebrated a century of service on Saturday, May 30, with a community gathering at the post's home at 132 Ball Park Road. Veterans, families, and community members filled the grounds from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. to honor 100 years of dedication to God and country — and to look ahead to the next hundred years.
The post traces its roots to May 24, 1926, when Sergeant Alvin C. York — one of America's most decorated World War I heroes and one of Tennessee's most distinguished sons — led the establishment of the post in Jamestown with thirteen original members. In a characteristic act of humility, Sgt. York declined to have the post bear his name, and the members instead chose Mark Twain as their namesake. York's legacy, however, has never been far from the post's identity. As the Tennessee General Assembly noted in honoring the post this year, the legacy of Sergeant Alvin C. York continues to inspire the post's mission, reminding Tennesseans of the enduring courage, humility, and service that define the state's veterans.
The American Legion itself was founded in 1919 by veterans of the Great War, dedicated to strengthening communities, supporting fellow servicemembers, and upholding the values of American patriotism. Post 137 has carried that mission forward in the Upper Cumberland region for ten decades, honoring veterans, supporting military families, mentoring youth, and strengthening civic life through programs such as Boys' State, community service initiatives, and patriotic observances.
Over the past century, the post has grown substantially. From 108 members in 2012, Post 137 now counts 255 members in good standing — a reflection of the enduring commitment to veterans and community that has defined the organization since its founding. The post building itself was a testament to that same spirit of self-reliance: it was constructed by the post members themselves in 2008, with the deed secured by 2010.
Saturday’s centennial program was rich with tradition and community fellowship. The event opened with a ceremony and presentation of colors, followed by recognition of veterans from all eras of service. Guest speakers addressed the crowd, and live music filled the grounds throughout the afternoon. Taco Bros and Butcher’s BBQ provided food for the celebration, and all post members in good standing received complimentary food, commemorative T-shirts, and challenge coins marking the 100-year milestone.
A centerpiece of the day’s program was the presentation of House Joint Resolution No. 1145, passed by the Tennessee General Assembly to honor and recognize Post 137 on the occasion of its 100th anniversary. The resolution was adopted March 30, 2026, and signed by Speaker of the House Cameron Sexton, Speaker of the Senate Randy McNally, and Governor Bill Lee. It was sponsored by Representatives Butler, Reedy, Russell, and Todd, and formally designated May 2026 as “American Legion Post 137 Centennial Month.”
The resolution was presented at Saturday’s celebration by State Representative Ed Butler. The framed proclamation on display was a special tribute in itself — the handcrafted frame was made by Representative Butler’s father, Ed Butler Sr., adding a personal and deeply meaningful touch to the honor.
The resolution recognized that the members of Post 137, past and present, have embodied the Legion’s four pillars — Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation, National Security, Americanism, and Children and Youth — through a century of unwavering dedication. It further noted that May 2026 marks not only the longevity of the organization but also the strength of the community it serves.
Post 137’s centennial is more than a milestone for an organization — it is a celebration of the men and women of Fentress County who have served this nation, and of a community that has stood behind them for one hundred years. All were invited to attend, and the post looks forward to the next century of service.
American Legion Mark Twain Post 137 is located at 132 Ball Park Road in Jamestown. For more information, follow the post on Facebook at American Legion Post 137 Jamestown, TN.
