NEWS

Historic DeLand American Legion post renovations to be revealed

Katie Kustura
katie.kustura@news-jrnl.com
Charles Williams, commander of American Legion Orange Baker Post 187, and Thomas Henri outside of the historic building in 2016. [News-Journal file]

The late state Sen. Dorothy Hukill would likely be proud.

After an extensive renovation of the historic building that houses American Legion Orange Baker Post 187 in DeLand, officials are ready to reveal the repairs in which Hukill played a significant part.

Post Cmdr. Charles Williams will be joined by state Rep. Patrick Henry, D-Daytona Beach, and other local leaders for a special ceremony at 415 W. Voorhis Ave. on Saturday at 9 a.m.

The building's repairs were a long time in coming. It sustained severe damage when a tree crashed into it during a hurricane in 2004. But the building has a rich history. American Legion Orange Baker Post 187 originally formed in 1948 after World War II, when a black war veteran tried to join an existing post and was told to go build his own.

Through the combined effort of multiple organizations, the city, Hukill and other area legislators, about $100,000 was budgeted for fixes for the property by the state in 2016.

[READ MORE: State to fund work on historic American Legion building in DeLand]

The journey has been long, but worthwhile, said Williams, a Vietnam War veteran who was wounded in action and received a purple heart.

"This is not the end of our story, but rather the beginning of what I hope will be a long presence in our community," Williams said.

Hukill, who died earlier this month, said at the time that funds were being raised that the building was one of those kinds of projects that "just grab you and touch your heart."

The late senator will be recognized during the ceremony.

Improvements to the building include a new roof, plumbing, electrical, A/C and insulation, city spokesman Chris Graham said.

Those interested in contributing memorabilia from World War II and prior conflicts may call 386-734-9536 or 386-747-8405.