Commerce in Hunt County, Texas — The American South (West South Central)

Bruce B. Williams American Legion Post No. 1

Photographed By Mark Hilton, June 25, 2018

1. Bruce B. Williams American Legion Post No. 1 Marker

Inscription. Click to hear the inscription.

The first American Legion Post in Texas was established at Commerce in 1919, the same year the veterans organization was begun nationally. Inspired by the funeral of Private Albert A. Barrow, who had served in World War I, Dr. W. B. DeJernett directed formation of a local veterans group. The first meeting was held in a building at Washington and Alamo streets (2 blks. W). Chartered on July 1, 1919 and named in honor of Bruce B. Williams, the first Commerce serviceman to die in World War I, the post has been a prominent leader at the state and national levels.

Erected 1982 by Texas Historical Commission. (Marker Number 7772.)

Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Military • Notable Events. A significant historical date for this entry is July 1, 1919.

Location. 33° 15.03′ N, 95° 53.884′ W. Marker is in Commerce, Texas, in Hunt County. Marker is on Park Street south of Main Street, on the right when traveling north. Located just to left of Commerce Public Library. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 1210 Park Street, Commerce TX 75428, United States of America. Touch for directions.

Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within

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walking distance of this marker. Jernigin's Store (here, next to this marker); Commerce Post Office (a few steps from this marker); Historical Stop - Downtown Commerce (about 600 feet away, measured in a direct line); Incorporation of Commerce (about 600 feet away); First Christian Church of Commerce (about 600 feet away); First Baptist Church of Commerce (approx. 0.2 miles away); First Presbyterian Church of Commerce (approx. ¼ mile away); Site of Early Commerce Schools (approx. 0.3 miles away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Commerce.

First marker to left of library (in bushes). image. Click for full size.

Photographed By Mark Hilton, June 25, 2018

2. First marker to left of library (in bushes).

Credits. This page was last revised on July 6, 2018. It was originally submitted on July 6, 2018, by Mark Hilton of Montgomery, Alabama. This page has been viewed 130 times since then and 18 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on July 6, 2018, by Mark Hilton of Montgomery, Alabama.