Article - Veterans of Foreign Wars in Canton Township: Canton Borough, Bradford County PA Year:  Photo by Joyce M. Tice Article by Eleanor Keagle submitted by Don Stanton

Following several preliminary organization meetings, the first regular meeting of Canton Lodge No. 714, Veterans of Foreign Wars was held on May 12, 1921, with Commander William McIntosh presiding. In addition to Commander McIntosh, the following officers were elected: Joseph D. Campbell, Adjutant; Patrick Morrissey, Quartermaster; Maynard Jenkins, Patriotic Instructor; Harry Russell, Post Historian.

There were about 36 members, all veterans of the first World War except John Leishman, who had served in the Spanish-American War. The second Thursday of the month was selected for the regular meeting night. A special meeting was held May 26, 1921, at which time men were selected to go to the Alba and Leroy cemeteries on May 30. All members were requested to appear in full uniform on Memorial Day, and 26 were present and in line. Commander McIntosh served two years, and was succeeded by Leslie Allen.

The VFW grew quite rapidly for a time, with three new members being taken in at a number of the meetings. In 1942, the VFW and the American Legion formed the Veterans Home Association, and purchased a property on Lycoming Street. Both organizations held their meetings there until 1948, at which time the VFW bought out the Legion’s interest and continued to use the home, making a number of improvements.

At the close of World War Two, a number of veterans were eligible to join the VFW and the membership showed a great increase. Officers at this time were Wesley Matson, James Mallory and Edgar Loomis.

Eleanor P. Keagle (1896-1971)