Legion Branch 109 celebrates 100 years of unwavering dedication
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
By: Kate Smith
Royal Canadian Legion Branch 109 celebrated its 100th anniversary on Friday, July 17 with a memorable evening inspired by the dance halls of the 1940s.
Jubilee Hall was transformed with vintage décor, Union Jack bunting, candlelit tables and banners honouring local veterans and military families. Many guests embraced the theme by arriving in period-inspired attire.
The 19-piece Lighthouse Swing Band Orchestra filled the hall with music, while swing dancers brought even more energy and nostalgia to the dance floor. The evening also featured pianist Sharon Johnston and a special presentation by local historian David Yates.
The celebration was made possible by the efforts of Branch 109’s volunteers, community partners, performers and supporters, while enjoying catering by Part II Bistro.
“It was wonderful to see the hall filled with people celebrating not only our Branch’s history, but the generations of members, veterans and volunteers who helped build it,” said Dawn Allen, Branch Manager.
“It truly felt like stepping back in time for a very special evening.”
Over the course of 100 years, the Legion has remained a symbol of service, dedication, remembrance and community.
Branch 109 has a rich history that began in 1926, following the First World War. It was founded through the amalgamation of several veterans’ organisations and has since grown alongside the Goderich community.
The Branch has served as a place to welcome home veterans returning from war, providing a space for friendship, remembrance and support.
Branch 109 has evolved to more than just a meeting place, and into a vibrant community space that welcomes everyone.
The Branch hosts social events, live music, volunteer opportunities and offers affordable hall rentals.
The ‘We’ll Meet Again’ gala recreated a 1940s dance hall atmosphere, and in recent years, the Lancaster touched down in Goderich again.
These events highlight the Branch’s commitment to honour the past while celebrating the future and creating new memories in Goderich.
Mayor Trevor Bazinet attended the gala.
“Here in Goderich, Branch 109 has been much more than a building on Kingston Street,” Mayor Trevor Bazinet stated on social media.
“It has been a place where friendships are formed, where stories are shared, where communities come together and where we honour the men and women who have defended the freedoms we enjoy every day.”
With a membership of over 100, one of the largest in Ontario, Branch 109 continues to be a place of remembrance, fellowship, service and community. It remains dedicated to supporting veterans and their families, while committing to its role in community service and fundraising.
“It [the Legion] was founded to ensure that those who answered the call of duty would never stand alone upon their return home,” said Mayor Bazinet.
“Since then, generations of Legion members have carried that mission forward with unwavering dedication.”
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