John J. Peters Post 159, Hoven, SD
The American Legion—First Half Century of Service Here in capsule form, is a year by year history of Hoven`s American Legion Post space and Complete records necessarily limit the information presented, but we hope this will give you an insight into the organization`s busy agenda from it`s birth fifty years ago to the present time.
1919 – In February 1919 a temporary committee of American officers serving in France during World War I was formed to take steps toward organizing an association of veterans of the Great War; an association to keep alive the principles of Justice, Freedom and Democracy for which they fought. On March 1, a thousand officers and men caucused, adopted the name American Legion, drew up a tentative constitution and made plans to caucus in St. Louis later that year. The second caucus resulted in the new organization being officially chartered by the Congress of the United States. 1920 – On January 20, Hoven`s returning servicemen met to organize their Legion Post, made application for and received their official Charter. The Post, named John J. Peters Post 159 in honor of John J. Peters who had given his life for his country and was buried in Flanders Field, began its operation with the following Charter Members: Frank Mullen, Oscar L. Beaudry, Louie F. Huber, John Pruys, Leo J. Krzyzopolski, H. E. Coleman, John T. Schneider, Carl Speck, Hubert Schaefer, Frank Geuikie, Mike Schaefer, John Weibel, Jacob P. Reding, Lloyd Murdy and Adolph Koehn. A month later, the following veterans who previously joined the newly formed Post at Gettysburg transferred their membership to Hoven: John V. Abler, Nick P. Rausch, Nick J. Meyer, Dan Schlecht, Peter Lux, John F. Zweber, John J. Litzen and Anthony J. Tobias. At their first meeting, A. J. Tobias was elected Commander and John F. Zweber was named Adjutant. The group was now 33 members strong, and during this year conducted their first annual Armistice dance and supper which netted a profit of $240.20 for use in community programs, 1921 – The new Post remained under the leadership of A. J. Tobias, and highlight of this year was a application for and approval of Charter for an American Legion Auxiliary Unit by sixteen ladies of the community to assist the Legion and adopt programs of their own. 1922 – With R. E. Montgomery as Commander, the Post bought their first set of Colors. During a program addressed by Rev. A. C. Helmbrecht, the Post presented a flag pole and American flag to St. Bernard`s School. 1923 – JohnV. Abler took over as Commander. Decoration and Armistice Days were observed and get-togethers with the Auxiliary were part of each activity. R. E. Montgomery was named District Vice Commander.
1924 – 1925 Frank L. Reardon was voted Commander. During these first years the meetings were held in Beringer`s Barber Shop in the basement of the A. J. Tobias home. They were also held in the basement of the Hoven State Bank. This year a basket social was planned by the Auxiliary. 1926 – Once more A. J. Tobias was chosen Commander. The Post was busy operating a Library and also a gym, which was in the back of Joe Hartung`s butcher shop. 1927 – E. J. Larkin served the Post this year. Among other activities, a picnic was held with the Auxiliary. 1928 – 1929 Nick P. Rausch was installed this year, and meetings were held in St. Anthony`s Hall. A joint supper-dance was sponsored by the Legion and Auxiliary. This year the Post was also honored with winning the Gavel- Bell trophy for the highest increase in membership in the District. The Post received free, from the M. & St. Louis Railroad, a baggage car which would soon be their new home.
1930 – Frank L. Reardon became Commander again and two lots were purchased from H. E. Coleman, who held the mortgage on the property in the amount of $500 for which every member signed. The Auxiliary was busy making plans to furnish the new home. Chairs were purchased, tables were built and the first meeting was held in their new quarters in August. 1931 -1932 – With John Culling at the helm, the Post sponsored the Junior baseball team winning the District title and competing in the finals at Mitchell this first year of competition. The Auxiliary planted shrubs and flowers around the new hall, adding the woman`s touch. The annual Halloween party and Armistice Day dinner-dance were held, and A. J. Tobias was chosen 10th District Commander. 1933 – Under the leadership of John Weibel, the Post continued to spend money for relief work during this period of economic depression. The Post started renting out their home for Firemen and Lady Forester. A. J. Tobias was again named District Commander, and plans were made at the state convention to organize a State Legion Band. 1934 – Louie F. Huber was elected Commander. A call was sent out for bandsmen to appear at the Mitchell convention. Barney Weber answered the call and became a Charter member. Decoration and Armistice Days were observed. Our ready and willing Auxiliary donated $35 to help pay off the debt on the lots. A. J. Tobias was still District Commander. 1935 – John V. Abler once more took command. The Annual Halloween party was held for Legion and Auxiliary members. This year the state convention was held in Hot Springs and the State Legion Band again performed. 1936 – Drought and dust storms were still every day occurrence when John F. Bieber took over. Hard time dance bills were held – price was 25 and 35 cents per couple. There were still things to celebrate, however, as a Christmas party was held. 1937-1938 Votes this year were in favor of Thomas J. McIllvoy for Commander. The Post started looking for a new home and decided to buy the Gaden building. A Legion birthday party was held and the Auxiliary presented the boys with a huge cake. The first of many home talent plays was presented. It was entitled “ Gilded Youth” and starred Legion and Auxiliary members. 1939 – Horace E. Coleman became the next Commander. Meetings were now held in the new Legion home, but the Legionnaires would still meet afterward with the ladies for cards ( and of course they enjoyed that lunch too ) in the ladies hall. 1940-1941 Barney Weber took command at a time when the War Department was urging formation of a Home Guard and Legion Commanders were requested to encourage young men to serve their country. A parade was held on July 4th, in which the Post took part. The Legion birthday was celebrated and the last Armistice Day observance was held before our country was again plunged into war. 1942-1943 Installation of officers found Nick J. Meyer as Commander. Under Nick, the Legion sponsored air-raid wardens and a new committee on war emergency was formed. A Bonds and Defense stamp drive was conducted. The mortgage was burned in August on the Gaden building and six lots. A community project was undertaken with a dance for the benefit of the local Hospital, which was being built at this time. Enough profit was realized to furnish one room in the hospital. 1944 – F. J. Beringer became Commander as the WW II vets started coming home and the Post continued to work jointly with the Auxiliary by turning over proceeds from two dances to the ladies. They in turn surprised the boys with a Valentine Party. All through these years, dances continued to be a major source of income with Nick Meyer still booking orchestras, as he was to do for many more years to come. Frank Beringer receives recognition in the State Legion News for having missed only 3 Legion meetings in 25 years.
1945 – Under the leadership of Frank Mickels, the Post sent cigarettes to the boys overseas. The Post was saddened by the death of one of our own boys, Leonard Hoven, who was killed in action while serving his country in Germany. Frank Beringer was made District Vice Commander. 1946 – Under Joe J. Kaiser, the Post became concerned about the need for a ball park, so 10 acres of land was purchased just north of Hoven for $500. In this year three baseball teams were sponsored. The Post also authorized the Legion athletic club to obtain new uniforms for the basketball team. Roller skating was also held in the hall for a short time. F. J. Beringer was raised to District Commander and presided at the District convention held in Hoven. 1947 – Leo J. Illies was named Commander this year. Jimmy Barnett and Pat Boffman played, as dances were still a good source of funds. It was decided to have a Military Ball, which would become an annual affair. This also was the first year this Post sponsored two delegates (Bill Peters, Roger Abler) to Boys State in Aberdeen. A new floor was laid in part of the hall in February. Frank Mickels was elected District Commander with Ray Rader as District Vice Commander. 1948 – Alfred Kaiser became the first WWII Commander. More work was done on the ball park with a new scoreboard added. The Post also decided to honor the Auxiliary with a fish feed. Msgr. Helmbrecht celebrated his Golden Jubilee and the Post was glad to help with handling traffic and parking cars for this momentous occasion. Discussion was held in regard to the furnace situation and after much debating one was decided upon. A grandstand committee was appointed and groundwork was begun for it. Word was received of the death of Albert Rausch, killed in an auto accident in Germany. Ray Rader was honored by being named 10th District Commander.
1949 – Frank Hoven took over the role as Commander and work was completed on the grandstand at the ball park. His and hers outhouses were purchased for the park at a cost of $65. Fund raising projects such as dances and smokers continued. A Fact Finding Committee was appointed to meet with the Auxiliary concerning the building of a new Auxiliary hall as the old one had become too small with the addition of new members each year. A big 2-day celebration was planned for dedication of the Grandstand with a carnival, parade, dance and a full day of festivities. A pheasant hunt for the benefit of hospitalized veterans was planned. A military funeral was held for Albert Rausch. Ray Rader was elected State Vice Commander at the state convention. 1950 – This year R. J. Novak took over the leadership with a full calendar of events scheduled. An oratorical contest in connection with the high school was sponsored and a dance was held for the benefit of the Hoven High band to purchase new uniforms. Ray Rader was named Post Legionnaire of the Year and was also voted District Legionnaire of the Year. The first annual Student Government Day was held and dances were sponsored for playground equipment. Donations were made to help purchase an oxygen tent for the hospital and Scholastic awards were presented to two outstanding seniors. This was the first year of a Veterans Day drawing for a new car the Legion raffled off. This proved a big success, netting about $1450. The Post began sponsorship of a boy Scout Troop and the addition to the Auxiliary baggage car was completed.
1951 – With R. C. Gabrielson taking over the job as Commander, many projects were undertaken. A barbeque was planned for neighboring Commanders, dignitaries and their wives. John Culling was named Post Legionnaire of the Year and also won District honors. A Civil Defense Unit was organized. This year 4,000 tickets were printed for the car raffle. Our bugler for many years, John Weisgram, resigned and two younger men volunteered to replace him. After much deliberation, it was decided to repair the roof on the hall. The Post was justly proud of their Big Ten Membership Citation received this year. Student Government Days was again sponsored, as were Boys State and Scholastic awards. In October of this year the Post was saddened to hear of the death of Eugene Rausch, killed in combat in Korea. 1952- Jerome Klocker was elected Commander this year. Sale of the Legion and Auxiliary halls and replacement of a larger building was discussed. Cost of materials was estimated at $10,000. Jim Splettstoesser was named Legionnaire of the Year. A Military Funeral & celebration of life was held in Legion Hall for Eugene Rausch. A drill squad was formed and a dance was held to obtain funds for helmets and rifles. Members built cabinets to hold this equipment. A flag sales campaign resulted in the sale of 22 flag sets. The Big Ten Citation was again awarded to Post 159. Ray Novak was elected District Commander, a position he held for 4 years. 1953 – This year with J. J. Scanlon at the helm, Korean veterans were being recruited into the Post and a Recognition party was held for them and their wives. In the annual car raffle, a net profit of $2356 was realized. Bob Gabrielson was chosen Post and District Legionnaire of the Year, and went on to become South Dakota Legionnaire of the Year. With the Legion hall`s new addition and renovation well under way, many methods of fund raising were planned such as turkey shoots, rabbit drives and Jerome Klocker`s favorite noodle feeds. Much of the $18,000 enlargement and remodeling job was completed when a disastrous fire about noon on Christmas Day reduced the entire structure to a pile of ashes. 1954 – J. J. Scanlon once more headed the Post. With their home of many years now just a memory, the Legion boys began plans for a new home. Whether to build a small meeting place or a spacious one to house all types of functions was the major question. What had seemed an impossible situation was beginning to turn into opportunity, because the countless activities in this busy and aggressive community showed a definite need for a large, all-purpose community hall. The boys called a mass meeting, and found the community pledging full and active support of a large multi-purpose center. Some insurance money, donations from organizations and individuals, food sales, plays, turkey shoots provided funds for a start on the huge project. By official Post action, plans and ideas for the new hall went to Architect Clarence Herges and Contractor Al Weber. Auxiliary members were sparked with enthusiasm with their `Apron game` which asked each person to send a penny per inch of their waist measurement, hoping all their friends had added `a little in the middle` since they had last seen them. This proved highly successful, as the ladies gathered 71,800 “inches” from almost all 48 states. One west coast man donated a dollar bill, stating that at a penny an inch he’d have very little change coming anyway. Friends in other towns also took an interest and donations were reeived from many of them to help build our $72,000 hall. However, at a special meeting in April of that year with the goal still $42,000 away, it was seriously debated as to whether to return all donations and build a small meeting hall or delay the project a year or more. But fierce determination prevailed, and the decision was made to go full steam ahead. Crews were appointed and everyone went to work. They collected cash, checks, notes, pledges and the dream of Post 159 and its community began to become a reality. Today, the hall which cost more than $90,000 to complete and equip, stands as a tribute to all who worked so hard in the personification of community service. Car raffles continued as major fund raising programs, and there were always men and women willing to get the tickets sold. This same year the Post had the honor of having Bob Gabrielson appointed Assistant Adjutant for South Dakota and Nick Rausch was named Post Legionnaire of the Year. 1955 – Ernest Wingen led the Post this year. April 12 the dreams of many people came true when the Grand Opening of the new hall was celebrated. Donations were still coming in, as someone donated a milk cow to be raffled off. In September the Post and community were extremely proud of the American Legion baseball team, as they brought home the huge Sportsmanship Trophy from the state tournament, besides winning the State Runners-up title. Another honor this year marked John J. Scanlon as District Legionnaire of the Year. The Post hosted the 10th District Convention and was awarded another Big Ten membership citation. The Auxiliary worked hard and earned money to purchase curtains for the stage. 1956 – James Splettstoesser was voted Commander. Again Hoven’s entry, Leo Hericks, became District Legionnaire of the Year. Two years after the start of our new hall, a $31,000 debt remained and income was insufficient to retire the loan. More fund drives were conducted, another car was raffled, and by July the debt was down to a figure of $14,000. 1957 – As James Kaiser took over the reins this year, it marked the first and only time to date that a son had followed his father’s footsteps as Commander of Post 159. Jim Splettstoesser was honored as Post Legionnaire of the Year. The car raffle this year brought in a record-breaking $6262 and Hoven was the first in the entire state to exceed membership quota. A flag was purchased for the church and a thousand Grace cards were purchased and distributed. Bob Gabrielson was chosen County Veterans Service Officer, a position he was to hold for the next 11 years. The city of Hoven celebrated their 75th anniversary and Legion Color Guard and servicemen headed the big parade.
1958 – When Henry Abler became Commander, we still owed $10,500 on the hall. The car this year netted $2946 and in December the Legion sold the old Auxiliary hall. Nick Rausch was picked as Legionnaire of the year. 1959 – Lee Van Well took command and Urban Rader was named Legionnaire of the Year. Profit from the car this year was $4,000 and this erased the debt in the hall. The Post received the National award for Americanism programs and also a citation for being first in the District over quota. 1960 – With Lee Van Well still Commander, plans were laid to burn the mortgage on the hall. In four years the Post and community paid off a 29-year mortgage to the Catholic Aid Assn. on a building now valued at $92,000. Mike Ettel, representing the company, stated they had such a high regard for the people of Hoven that they had never come out to investigate either before or after making the loan. The hall was filled with well-wishers during the impressive ceremony. Royce Hackl was named as Legionnaire of the Year and the Post again won the national Americanism Award.
1961 – Harold Simon was picked to head the Legion and the boys were again awarded the National Americanism Citation for the third consecutive year. They were again first in the District to enroll membership quota. The Post was busy planting grass in the park, had a well dug and built dugouts for baseball diamond. Twelve more tables were purchased for the hall. Ernest Wingen was chosen Legionnaire of the Year and a large number of pheasants were hunted for hospitalized veterans. 1962 – Arlyn Miles headed the Post and James Kaiser was Legionnaire of the Year. Raffling of a car had been discontinued after the hall was paid for but the project was taken on again during this year. John Culling was completing 25 years as Post Finance Officer and the Post again won the National Americanism award based on its excellence in conducting the many programs in this division of Legion work. 1963 – LeRoy Rausch took over this year and the Post was proud to earn an Award of Merit for completing 15 years of continuous membership quota. Ray Novak, the Post’s candidate for Legionnaire of the Year, won the District title. Other awards received this year were; Child Welfare citation, Go-Getter award, Certificate of Meritorious Service from the National Commander, and a gift for 4 years high in membership. 1964 – With L. J. Brickner as Commander, the Post sponsored an Oratory contest, the Student Government Days, Veterans Day services, car raffle, Boys State, Fine Arts Conferences, School Awards and American Education Week. Realizing the need for a larger park, the Legion purchased additional land adjacent to the present facility to construct a football field and track field. Jim Kaiser was picked as District 10 Commander and Walter Rausch was Legionnaire of the Year. Nick Meyer and Nick Rausch were honored this year for 45 years of consecutive membership. 1965 – This year Royce Hackl took command of this busy and aggressive Post. An award was received for 17 years of membership quota and lights were installed on the football field. Art Seurer won Post and District Legionnaire of the Year honors. The Post was surprised with a substantial gift from an old time member, A. J. Tobias, in the form of dishes and cooking utensils. The boys again had a pheasant hunt for the VA hospitals, civil defense education, turkey shoot, donations to the school and hospital, and sent Christmas cards to our servicemen in Vietnam. Signs were put in advertising the Legion’s park and picnic facilities. 1966 – Ray Kaup served as Commander this year and the first Vietnam veterans were welcomed into the Post. Our local oratory winner placed second in the District competition. After this year’s Student Government Days, an appreciation banquet was held for students and their parents. There was a pheasant hunt, turkey shoot, and all Americanism programs for schools were conducted. Ernest Wingen was named Legionnaire of the Year. Energetic members repaired and repainted restrooms at the athletic park and installed a permanent flag pole there for athletic events. Gift subscriptions to the Legion Magazine were sent to our servicemen.
1967 – With Jim Hoffman as Commander, our Post Express came onto the scene. It was for a time an un-named monthly newsletter for the Post. Mrs. Edwin Beitelspacher came up with the winning name in a spirited contest. This was an especially fitting title when one thinks back to the many memories of the old box-car meeting hall. A “Let’s Hear It” page proves very enjoyable reading, containing contributory articles by individual members. Fifty three flag sets were sold in a flag promotion campaign and Father Don Koehn was named Honorary Post Chaplain. Bob Gabrielson was elected District Vice Commander. All school and patriotic functions were carried out, and a Christmas dance was held for the benefit of the high school band. A New Years Eve party was held and the Post hit an all-time high membership of 153. Ernie Wingen was named Editor of the Express and Adjutant Tom Davis became Co-Editor. 1968 – This 50th birthday of the Legion finds Edwin Beitelspacher at the wheel. The District convention was held here in March. Seventeen high schools were represented in our Invitational Track Meet and the Legion provided all ribbons and medals. Hoven is again honored to have their own Bob Gabrielson elected District Commander and he was also appointed by Governor Boe to the S. D. Veterans Commission. The Post this year was honored for 20 consecutive years of membership quota and is making solid plans for service as it embarks on its second half century. Highlights of this year will be various activities surrounding the Golden Anniversary year. The Post is highly honored and proud to offer special recognition this year to the following World War I veterans: Nick Rausch, Frank Beringer, John Culling, Mike Schaefer, Jake Reding, Barney Weber, Louie Huber, Henry Udahl, Joe Fass, Oscar Beaudry, Charles Miles, John Miles, Leo Illies, A. J. Tobias, Alfred Zuber and Albert Hauck. These men, along with their buddies who have passed on, built the foundation of this great organization and their Post. May it continue to justify the spirit and endeavor upon which it was built. That for which the American Legion stands will live forever. The Hoven Legion Auxiliary Unit, ever since 1921, has been a driving force behind the successes of Post 159. In addition to conducting countless programs of their own, these ladies have worked harmoniously with the Legion with dedication to a better community, state and nation.
Hoven Legion—Next Half Century 1969-2019 1969 – ElRoy Kaiser was Commander. Boy State (Mike Hageman), Smokers, dances, 3rd Annual News Years Eve Party, Annual Turkey Shoot and Legion baseball. Peggy Kaiser won the local and District Legion Oratory Contest in February. Improved and cemented Broad Jump and Pole Vault facilities at the track field. New Lights and wiring in the main hall with dimmers on lights. 1970 – Tom Davis was Commander. Dan Arbach coached Legion Baseball to win League 20 Championship, but lost Regional to Sisseton 8-5. Annual Turkey Shoot, Boy State (Pat Breen), New Years Eve Party- $10.00 per couple, Student Government Days, Oratory are a few projects of the Legion. Post Express-Legion Newspaper-Editors (Ernie Wingen, Tom Davis, Royce Hackl) going strong. Ray J. Novak was elected Legion State Commander of South Dakota. 1971 – Walter Rausch was Commander. Royce Hackl started a Picture Gallery of all the Past Commanders of Hoven. R. C. Gabrielson was elected State Commander of South Dakota. This was the second year in a row for Hoven to have a South Dakota State Commander. Rausch Sisters (Agnes, Rose Marie, Leona & accompanist Alice) sang beautifully at Bob’s Homecoming August 22, 1971 at Hoven. Duane Niles played for the 3rd time for the New Years Eve Party. 120 pheasants were donated to the Veterans Hospital & Homes in South Dakota. Ceiling tile were put in the Men’s, Women’s, and foyer rooms at the Legion home. Student Government Days, Boy State (Mike Carter), Legion baseball and smokers were held.
1972 – Arnie Duenwald was Commander. Membership ($6.00) hit an all time high with 174. New Glass Front Doors were installed at the Legion home. Rausch Sisters (Agnes, Rose Marie, Leona & accompanist Alice) won 1st Place at the Legion State Convention & 3rd Place at Chicago-National Legion Convention. Arnie presented a Flag Set to the Protestant Church of Hoven. Legion Track Relays had 19 teams participating. The Legion Newspaper-Post Express won 1st Place in the state for Legion Newspapers composed by Ernie Wingen, Tom Davis & Royce Hackl. Boy State (Mark DeRouchey).
1973 – Francis R. Karst was Commander. Air Conditioners were installed at the Legion Hall by Chuck Mertes. Hoven Airport dedication, Teenage Dances (7 dances-$1600.00), Turkey Shoot, Student Government Days, Pick-up raffle, Concrete inner curb around the Legion track field. Boy State (Ron Kraft, Jim Giese), Oratory Contest, 100 new chairs & 18 tables were purchased for the Legion Hall. Seating capacity was increased to 300 people. Rausch Sisters (Agnes, Rose Marie, Leona & accompanist Alice) again won State Legion competition.
1974 – Reuben R. Reuer was Commander. Legion Track Relays had 25 teams participating. Rausch Sisters (Agnes, Rose Marie, Leona & accompanist Alice) got 2nd Place at the Legion State Convention in Sioux Falls. Turkey Shoot, Pheasant Hunt, Legion Baseball, New Years Eve Party, 2nd Place in the State Americanism (Ernie Wingen), Student Government Days, 177 membership, & Teenage dance were a few of the Programs of 1974. Jim Kaiser was elected Area Vice Commander. Boy State (David Kaup, David Theunissen, David Hawkinson). 1975 – Norbert Arbach was Commander. Ernie Wingen won State Americanism for the Year. Rausch Sisters (Agnes, Rose Marie, Leona & accompanist Alice) won 1st Place at the State Legion Convention. Dan Duenwald (coach Legion Baseball) won the League 10 Championship but lost Regional Tournament to State Champs Java 11-8. Legion put in an All Weather Track for $12,000.00. Pruys Electric rewired the kitchens with 10 new circuits. Membership ($8.00) was at 179. Boy State (Jim Gabrielson, Doug Zacher). Francis Karst was elected District 10 Legionnaire of the Year. 1976 – Greg McGrath was Commander. BiCentennial was in 1976 for the USA. Floats were make for the celebrations in Hoven & Onaka on the Raising the Flag at Two Jima won first place. Legionnaires man the Raising and man the Machine Gun. Legion Baseball won League 10 but lost to Miller in the Regional. Turkey Shoot, Smokers, Oyster Fry, New Years Eve Party, Legion Track Meet. Student Government Days, Membership ($10.00) was at 177. Boy State ( David Litzen, David Hepper).
1977 – Dr. Mark Carter was Commander. Boy Scouts of America was approved for Hoven. Oyster Fry, Turkey Shoot, Smoker, Boy State (Tom Glatt, Terry Reuer), Student Government Days, Legion Track Relays, Demo Derby, Legion Baseball, Teenage Dances and Oratory Contest. Legion donated land to Paul Hericks who in turn donated land to the City of Hoven for a swimming pool. Membership for John J. Peters was at an all time high 181. 1978 – Vern Schmidt was Commander. New Years Eve Party, Legion Baseball, Demo Derby, Oratory Contest, Boy Scouts, installed colored steel instead of glass in the lower Front Doors. LeRoy Rausch-District 10 Commander, Teenage Dances, Boy State (Tim Giese, Dick Glatt), Student Government Days and Legion Track Relays. Membership – 174. 1979 – Jerry Elshere was Commander. Legion Baseball, Boy State (Joe Hageman, Wayne Schmidt, Paul Penrod), Oratory Contest, Smelt Feed, 15 team Legion Track Relays, smoker, Memorial & Veteran Day Programs, 200 Club Dance with Tommy Mathews Orchestra. Art Seurer retired as Janitor after 20 years of service. Membership – 159. 1980 – Fred Frost was Commander. Legion Baseball, Boy State (Brian Simon), Oratory Contest, Legion Track Relays, Smoker, Demo Derby, Memorial Day, Veterans Day Programs, 200 Club Dance($2875.00). Shingle the Roof Fund was successful. $16,600 was raised for the leaky roof on the Post home. 81 Roofing did the work. Student Government Days were held. Membership - 157. 1981 – Rich Kaup was Commander. Legion Baseball, Boy State (Jim Seurer, Dave Hericks), Oratory Contest, Legion Track Relays, Smelt Feed, Demo Derby, and Veterans Day 200 Club Dance ($2875). Wayne Schmidt was Legion Baseball Coach. Benefit raised money for new Band Uniforms. Membership – 157. 1982 – Joseph Seurer was Commander. Legion Baseball, Boy State (Tim Reuer, Mark Ulrich), Oratory Contest, Legion Track Meet, Student Government Days, & Veterans Day 200 Club Dance ($2792). Legion Rack Field was resurfaced to the tune of $12,100. Hoven High School and Legion splitting the cost 50/50 on the note. Wayne Schmidt was Legion Baseball Coach. Membership was $12.00 and totaled 142. 1983 – LeRoy Rausch was Commander. Legion Baseball, Boy State (Shannon Rausch, Don Hawkinson), Oratory Contest (Val Brenner 1st, Lexie Bitzer 2nd), Legion Track Meet, Veterans Day 200 Club Dance ($2409 profit), Fall District 10 Meeting and Smoker. LeRoy made and put up a Beautiful Steel Black Archway going into Legion Baseball, Football and Track Fields. On the Archway it said “Legion Field Post 159”. Handicapped Bathrooms were installed upstairs in the Auxiliary Room by Ken Van Well and Todd Motowidlo. Membership was $12.00 and totaled 150.
1984 – Jim Krogman was Commander. Legion Baseball (Wayne Schmidt coach), Boy State (Jeff Brown, Nick Kaiser), Oratory Contest (Lynn Trefz winner), Legion Track Meet, Student Government Days and Veterans Day 200 Club Dance. Legion hosted the District 10 Regional Baseball Tournament on Legion Field in Hoven against Miller. Lost 8-5. February we had an Old Fashion Military Ball Dance. Members dressed in Uniform if they could. 15 dressed and 10 children modeled Dad’s uniform. Ice Machine was purchased for $419 for the Bar. Membership was 152. 1985 – Frank Hoven was Commander. Boy State (Kevin Hageman, Tom Duenwald), Legion Baseball (Dan Rausch), Oratory Contest (Lynn Dutt won Local and District), Legion Track Meet, Student Government Days and Veterans Day 200 Club ($1886.81 profit). Brenner Builders remodel and repair baseball Grandstands for 750.00. Tony Frost was janitor for 5 years. Membership was $15.00 and totaled 148. 1986 – Fritz Glodt was Commander. Boy State (Jon Brown, Charlie Reuer), Legion Baseball (Dan Rausch & Chuck Ortmeier-Coaches), Oratory Contest, Legion Track Meet, Student Government Days & Veterans Day 200 Club Dance ($2801.00 profit). Brenner Builders put in 15 yards of concrete for the sidewalk ($2456). Legion Baseball won the District & Regional Tournaments. Then we lost to Clark 12-5 in the State Tournament. They played Howard and lost 11-1. Last 19 games they were 14-5 record. This was the first time in State Tournament since 1970. Membership was 142. 1987-1988 – Richard Lunders was Commander. Boy State (Dana Rausch, Brian Simon, Jason Bohl-87, Brad Elshere, Durran Schmidt-88), Legion Baseball (Rick Karst, Bill Arbach Coaches), Legion Track Meet, Teen Dance, Student Government Days & Veterans Day 200 Club Dance ($2773 in 87, $2892in 88). Legion Baseball 87 & 88 won District and Regional Tournaments. Won Two Games at State Tournament at Wagner, SD & lost two for 3rd Place in State 1987. Lost two in a row at State in Madison, SD 1988. Paid off Track Field loan at Bank for $4918.71. Ken Van Well put new boards in the baseball Grandstand for $1579. Junior Service Club put ceiling fans and electrical circuits on stage for Bands and everyone. Membership was 140 at $15.00 each. 1989 – David Von Wald was Commander. Legion Baseball (Rick Karst Coach), Boy State (Chad Karst, Nick Baus & Bill Keller), Oratory Contest, Student Government Days, Legion Track Meet & Veterans Day 200 Club Dance ($2871 profit). Installed new sound system in main hall for $1370.00. Transplanted 20 trees donated by Bill Zweber to the Legion Track Field boundary. Installed new 80 gal. electric hot water heater. Membership was 136 at $15 each. Francis Karst was Legionnaire of the Year local and District 10 Legionnaire of the Year.
1990 – Bill Zweber was Commander. Legion Baseball (Rick Karst Coach), Boy State ( Allen Geist, Bill Litzen & Corey Johannsen), Oratory Contest, Legion Track Meet & Veterans Day 200 Club Dance ($2419 profit). Arlyn Minnerath cooked the meat for the 200 Club for the last 5 years. Ken Van Well installed new roof for the Baseball Grandstand for $3805. Rick Karst resurfaced the infield with clawey & sand. Legion honored Mike Schaefer age 98 and Louie Huber age 93 last WWI Veterans. Fertilized football & baseball fields. Tony Frost was janitor for 10 years. Membership was 133. 1991 – Mike Elsbery was Commander. Legion Baseball (Gerard Simon Coach), Boy State (Don Litzen, Marty Jensen & Curt Johannsen), Oratory Contest, Legion Track Meet & Veterans Day 200 Club Dance ($1875 profit). Rose Marie Reuer and Royce Hackl started finding pictures and frames for all the past Commanders with the years they served for the wall. Chase Roofing repaired the leaky roof for $3080. Membership was 134. 1992-1994 – David Rausch was Commander. Legion Baseball (Allen Geist Coach), Boy State (Ryan DeRouchey & Jason Kaup-92, Keith Seurer, Joey Klocker & Nick Rausch-93, Justin Birchem, Marc Miles & Kevin Litzen-94), Oratory Contest, Legion Track Meet & Veterans Day 200 Club Dance ($2750-92, $2940-93, & $3021-94 profit). David Rausch drew up plans for a new working Bar. Al Weber had the Hutterites build the bar. Then we had Al do the installation, the plumbing & the electrical. Dave also found a used 6 foot glass door cooler for the bar. Brenner Builders installed insulated overhead door. 1992 the Legion Track Field, Football Field and Baseball Field was turned over to the Hoven School District. The Legion Park was turned over to the City of Hoven. 1993 Art Seurer built the picture frames for all the Commanders in Hoven compiled by Rose Marie and Royce Hackl. Legion Baseball in Hoven was finished in 1993 for lack of interest. Frank Hoven loaned $7000 to the Legion for the new Bar and Door projects. David & Mary Rausch were Bar Mgrs. for 5 years bring prosperity back to the Legion. Membership was raised to $20 in 94--$15 in 93. We had 140 members. 1995-1997 – Larry Miles was the second father-son Commander. Legion Track meet, Boy State (Jon Coyne & Robert Lacher -95, Kurt Jensen & Ben Duenwald – 96, Steve Trefz & Wayne Hageman -97), Memorial Day & Veterans Day Programs, 200 Club Dance ($2650-95, $2160-96, $2280-97 profit). We paid Frank Hoven loan off in December 95 for the Bar. 1995 David Rausch was elected District 10 Commander. Meyers Roofing sealed, insulated & sloped the Legion Roof in Oct. 97 for $11,928. Avenue of US Flags at the cemetery in Hoven was put in by David Von Wald & Ray Kaup in 1997. Legion pumped water for the State of South Dakota by Bill Zweber & cleared $5385 for 5 days. Membership was $20 and totaled 116. 1998-2000 – Gene Simon was Commander. Legion Track Meet (the last after 20 years), Boy State (Kevin Arbach-98, Ryan Karst, Joe Seurer & Todd Miles-99, Mike Ulrich & Clint Nold-2000), Baseball Pool, Memorial Day & Veterans Day Programs, Veterans Day 200 Club Dance ($2837-98, $2903-99 & $2431-2000 profit). Replaced ceiling tile in Men’s and Women’s rooms. Legion moved dimmer light switches into old bar room. Tony Frost retired as janitor after 20 years of service. Thanks Tony Frost! Bill & Donna Zweber were Bar Mgrs for a number of years. Membership was $20 & totaled 110.
2001-2012 – Francis R. Karst was Commander. Memorial Day and Veterans Day Programs, Boy State (Jamie Bachman-2001, Adam Lunders-2002, Matt Stoecker, Kevin Schmidt & Austin Simon-2003, Brian Hageman, Cody Hageman & Tyler Ulrich-2004, Kyle Kaup-2005, Jeremy Stoecker-2006, Adam Reuer-2007, Derek Rausch, Kirk Rausch & Tyler Hageman-2008, Jeff Hageman & Erik Kaiser-2010, Travis Clark-2011, Rich Morgan, Reed Kaiser & Asher Fleming-2012), Veterans Day 200 Club Dance ($2538-2001, $2525-2002, $2224-2003 profit), Steak Fry Night ($2018-2004, $1703-2005, $1686-2006, $1855-2007, $1515-2008, $1954-2009, $2055-2010, $2310-2011, $2037-2012 profit), Baseball Pool, Student Government Days. Gourmet Guys ran in 2004 & 2005 with 21 men cooking and serving 200 people. Rose Marie Reuer, Alice Simon, Agnes Reuer & Leona Kaiser Chairmen for this good project. Tour of Tables were run a number of years with the Legion Auxiliary heading this project. 22 luncheon tables were decked out in its hostress’s chosen Motif. Legion Pool Tournament started in 2002 with 100 players with Eric and Larry Miles heading this project. New Tile, Ceramic Tile, new Handicapped Bathrooms in the Auxiliary room, New Paint- foyer, Aux room & kitchens, new LP Gas furnace & LP Hot Water Heater for $18,700 in 2004. New lights & fixtures in the Auxiliary room, Men’s room, & Foyer paid for by the Auxiliary $2750. Asphalt Parking lot south & 21 lightweight Lifetime tables for $3600 in 2005-2006. Auxiliary purchase a new 2-door Stainless Steel Refrigerator. New R-20 triple pane Windows in the main hall & 11 lightweight Lifetime tables for $5325 in 2007. 7 yards of new cement in front of Main Doors in 2008. 9 more R-20 triple pane windows in the west room, Auxiliary room & kitchens in 2009 & 2010. Resealed the auditorium floor and New Air Conditioner Compressor for 2012. Larry Miles started a Bar Manager in 2002. Reuben Reuer, Francis Karst & others donated their time with no pay for janitor duties starting in 2003 to pay for all these improvements with the help of the Hoven Community. A new Flag donated to St. Anthony`s Church (2012) to replace the 48 star flag installed in 1956. Membership was $20 in 2001, $23 in 2003, $25 in 2007, $27 in 2009, $28.50 in 2012 with total members 109-2001, 104-2007, 100-2010, 98-2012.
2013-2015 – Francis R. Karst was Commander. Memorial Day, Veterans Day, Boy State (Scott Glodt-2013), Student Government Days, Oratory Contest (Scott Glodt-2013, 2014, Sarah McClure- 2015,2016), Steak Fry, Legion Pool Tournament, World Series Pool & Walleye Feed. 2013 the north wall in the auditorium was studded, five new electrical circuits, insulated R-22, skeet rocked, carpeted & textured for $8900. Norman Stephems was construction, Mark Weber was Electrical & Plumbing, Mike Seurer did the texturing and plastering. Roger Kraft, Duane Karst, Francis & Bonnie Karst painted north and south auditorium walls (35 gallons of paint). 2014 The west and north walls in the Bar Room was insulated R-22, studded, skeet rocked, textured, carpeted, and painted (4 gallons). This cost $7200 with volunteers—Denis & Jim Arbach, Bonnie, Duane, Francis & Rick Karst, Cliff Simon. Mike Seurer did the texturing and plastering. The Auxiliary put in Adura tile on both kitchens floors (2014) for $4000. Royce Hackl got Ken Van Well to make two new Oak Trophy Cabinets for the Men Room and paid for it. 44 rolls of 24” X 6.5 X 39’ R-19 insulation in both kitchens, Bar Room, Foyer, Auxiliary Room in 2015. New ceiling installed with insulation in back kitchen by Roger Kraft, Bonnie and Francis Karst. Total cost of these projects were $3000. Sept. 2015 Legion Post had a flag burning Ceremony in front of the Hall. Auxiliary sang God Bless America and the Legion saluted all worn and torn flags burned. A new 30” Legion Emblem was installed in the front of the Legion Hall. The last two insulated Windows were installed by Randy Pruys in the coat room for $2400 in 2015. 11 more lifetime 30” X 8` light weight tables were purchase in 2015. Sarah McClure won local Oratory contest and 2nd in District 3 contest in 2015 & 2016. Scott Glodt won local Oratory contest and 2nd in District 3 contest in 2013 & 2014. Membership was $30 in 2013-2016 Total members 96-2013, 93-2014, 102-2015.
2016-2017 – Francis R. Karst was Commander. Memorial Day, Veterans Day, Boy State, Oratory Contest, Steak Fry, Legion Pool Tournament, World Series Pool & Walleye Feed were held. New ceiling and R-19 insulation were installed in the Coat Room by Roger Kraft, and Francis Karst. Two new high toilets were installed in the women bathrooms in the basement. Another flag burning was held April 11, 2016 for the entire school body on the school grounds at 8:20 am. 50 flags were burned by 8 Legionaire and 6 Auxilary members. Legion brought supper at Boones Bar and Grill for the last seven World War II Veterans—Francis DeRouchey, Melvin Huber, Rapheal Huber, Loren Kaup, Aryln Miles, William Ruthman, & Walter Rausch. Two new insulated handicapped 36” Glass Doors were installed and paid for by the Auxilary. Membership was $30 in 2016 at 104. $35 was in 2017 at 100.
