History of Kamiah Legion Post 75
The George Hayes Curtis American Legion Post 75 in Kamiah, Idaho, is one of the oldest American Legion posts in the state, chartered in 1919 shortly after the national organization was founded by World War I veterans and granted a congressional charter that same year. Named after George Hayes Curtis (a local veteran, though specific details on his service are limit
ed in available records), the post has focused on patriotic service, veteran support, and community involvement in the Kamiah area for over a century. In 2019, Post 75 celebrated its 100th anniversary alongside the national American Legion's centennial, hosting a community party with food at its hall on March 9 to mark the occasion. The current American Legion Hall at 618 Main Street was constructed in 1945, shortly after World War II, through volunteer labor and private donations as a tribute to the nation's heroes. It originally featured an indoor shooting range and has since served multiple community roles, including as a roller skating rink, teen dance hall, and venue for events like the annual Save the Pool Crab Feed fundraiser. The post remains active in veteran services and local traditions. It collaborates with nearby VFW Post 5407 for Memorial Day ceremonies (e.g., wreath-layings at cemeteries and bridges in Kamiah and Kooskia) and provides funeral honors, disability assistance, and accessibility improvements for veterans. In 2022, Post 75 made state history by installing Idaho's first Gold Star Families Memorial By-way plaque on its building to honor families of fallen service members. It has also hosted American Legion District 2 meetings and displays historical artifacts, such as a donated painting of Flanders Fields from World War I. Under commanders like Ron Funnemark (active in recent years), the post continues to emphasize daily support for veterans, community accessibility, and events at its hall. As a non-profit, it operates at 618 Main Street (phone: 208-935-0294) and maintains a page for updates.