American Legion Hall

The American Legion was founded in 1919 following the conclusion of World War I. Prior to the construction of this building in 1921, Olympia's veterans met at several temporary locations. Member began to raise funds at the end of 1920 or beginning of 1921 to provide a permanent place and soon decided on the building at 6th and Water Street. 

The members had little success fundraising at first, but when they received help from the Rotarians and women’s organizations, they were able to secure enough donations to support the construction of this building. The Rotarians and several Olympia area women’s organizations held fundraisers to receive donations from veterans, schoolchildren, and other social organizations or businesses. 

The original plans for the building included an auditorium and meeting place, with events to attract people from the community. The American Legion wanted to bring in people from outside of their organization. The building opened on Armistice Day in 1921, and there was a large event with dances, boxing matches, Inaugural Balls, and other forms of entertainment.

American Legion Hall, Olympia History. Accessed October 27th 2019. https://olympiahistory.org/american-legion-hall/.