History 1919-1934

1928 The Town was having numerous automobile accidents, and people were taken to the hospital in private cars by volunteers. The Post realized what a handicap it was for the Police Department, so we organized an Ambulance Drive. Our members went door to door for contributions, and with the proceeds, bought the first ambulance for the town of Shrewsbury. The State Conventions had become very popular and the Post always had a large delegation and had a wonderful time wherever we went. Although these were Prohibition Days, so as not to embarrass the Legion, we formed the Squirrel Club, because after two drinks and you would want to climb a tree.

1931 As the Town grew larger, The Lower Town Hall was remodeled into offices and the Post moved to the big hall upstairs. Armistice Day was always celebrated by the firing of the Cannon and the ringing of the Congregational Church Bell at 11:00 AM. Shrewsbury High School football team always played Holden High School on this day, rotating each year, with a large turnout by the townspeople. The Post always had an Armistice Dance to end the day, and a large bonfire at Shepards field. The Post was very active and took in quite a few new members with a very strenuous initiation- all kinds of pranks were played on them before they were declared Legionnaires. The Post had an active Firing Squad that officiated at the Civil War Veterans funerals and other occasions, with a bugler that had a hard time hitting the High C.

1933 As the Depression had got underway, none could go anywhere due to the lack of funds, so the Post prospered as a sort of social club. During summers we played ball at Dean Park until dark, then went up to the picnic grounds for refreshments, singing songs and having a wonderful time with some of our Town Officials as well Legion members. The first Clambakes by the Post were held on the Picnic grounds in Dean Park.

1934 The Post always looked forward to a home of our own, and as the #2 School had been vacated as a school, the Post was able to obtain the building through the good graces of the Selectmen and the Superintendent of Public Buildings. The P.W.A. was in force at this time and we got a lot of help and labor in remodeling. Our members spent a good many weekends and evenings on the project, making many personal friendships working together. The Post held our first Armistice Day Dinner here in our own building. Due to our popularity, we had to limit the attendance to one hundred, as that was all the hall would hold. This year, we dedicated our new home with a big celebration. Dignitaries from the State and Legion Posts, State and Local Officials and our fellow townspeople attended.