From the inception of the American Legion in Lake Charles through the late 1940's, the members met at different locations throughout the city. Matilda Geddings Gray, a local philanthropist, rancher and farmer wanted to "insure that a large group of people should benefit from a memorial," to honor her late brother, Henry Gray. Henry was a veteran of WWI, a member of the post and a prominent oilman and cattleman in Southwest Louisiana.
It was at this time that Mrs. Gray donated a parcel of land, a half square city block, at the present location for the purpose of establishing a permanent American Legion home. The home would be in memory of her late brother, Henry Gray. Mrs. Gray's other brother, William Gray, also assisted with the donation.
Pictured is the Henry Gray, William Gray and their father.
