History of NK Legion discussed
NEW KNOXVILLE — The New Knoxville Historical Society at its annual meeting honored the military by celebrating the beginning of the American Legion Post 444 of New Knoxville.
Dr. Todd Spieles introduced U.S. Army LTC (Ret.) Robert Bayham who outlined the history of the Legion. He said that an act of Congress in September 1919, authorized the forming of the Legion.
Founded by 26 veterans returning home from WWI, the Washington Post 444 held its organizational meeting in the New Knoxville Town Hall on May 3, 1920. For its post home, it purchased the old creamery building from Kramer and Dickman. In the 1930s, a public pond was constructed for swimming, ice skating and ice harvesting. Bayham went on to say that in May 1973 the old Post home was razed and a new building constructed. The pond was filled in and that area was used for festival activities. The American Legion Auxiliary Unit 444 was organized in 1932, and the Sons of the American Legion Squadron 444 was chartered in December 1994. Bayham reminded those in attendance that the Legion’s main purpose is to serve the community.
During the meeting President Todd Spieles honored Teresa Bambauer who passed away in December 2021. Bambauer was the Society’s treasurer who oversaw the fundraiser which brought in over $40,000. Spieles honored Myron Fledderjohann who passed away in August 2021. Fledderjohann served the Society as a president and trustee for many years. He had a wealth of knowledge of New Knoxville history and genealogy. Spieles also ac
knowledged Lloyd “Red” Kuck who passed away in February 2022.
Kuck was the last of the three original founders of the New Knoxville Historical Society. He served many years as a trustee.
The New Knoxville Historical Society will be open the fourth Sunday from May through October.