The planning for a new American Legion post in Hastings began in November of 1937, when about 15 ex-servicemen met in the band room of the Hastings Public School. It was at this meeting that the men named the post in honor of Admiral David Farragut, the US Naval hero from the American Civil War. At the next meeting, in December 1937, officers were installed with Rex Haines nominated as Commander of the post. Note that there had been a former American Legion post in Hastings and Mrs. Sidney Thursby, mother of the former commander Sydney Thursby, was present at this meeting to gave the original colors to the new post. The Admiral Farragut Post received a temporary charter in late 1937/early 1938. A final charter for the post was received in August of 1938, which marks the official founding of this post. In August of 1945 the Admiral Farragut Post inaugurated a campaign for funds with which to purchase land and erect a permanent building. A year later, the post purchased approximately 1.4 acres fronting on Farragut Boulevard (now Avenue) and Ravensdale Road. In 1948 a Woman’s Auxillary was organized. Under the leadership of Commander Garwood Whaley, the 1948-49 season saw the planning of the building in its current configuration. Members pitched in, and did all the plumbing, wiring and electrical work. The dedication of the new home of Post #1195 took place on June 18, 1949. The Hastings High School band provided music for the dedication. Compiled by Natalie Barry on 8/15/13
From materials in the Hastings Historical Society files
