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A Brief History
of Amherstview Branch 631Legion
Amherstview
Branch #631 was originated in January 1978 due to the efforts of Comrade Arnold
Adams. Legion members present were; Rolly Ashman, Past Commander of District G,
Elwin Brown, District Commander of District G, Harley Leach, Secretary of Zone
G1.
From this first
meeting the Branch was formed and a Charter was requested from Dominion Command.
Comrade Dave Chapperauld, Past President Dominion Command, who at that time was
3rd Vice President Ontario Command, presented the Charter at a dinner on April
15th 1978. The dinner was held at Our Lady of Mount Carmel School in Amherstview.
The first few
months the Branch held its meetings and functions at the Oil Chemical & Atomic
Union Hall on Country Road #6 in Amherstview. Membership grew so rapidly that a
larger facility was required. After many months of searching, the Branch finally
made an agreement with local Member of Parliament J Earl McEwen to take over the
large grocery store in Collins Bay in the spring of 1979.
By November 11th,
1979 renovations were completed. Many members volunteered their skills and time
to this project. Branch 631 officially moved into their new amenities.
In 1989, ten
years later the Branch purchased the building on a ten-year mortgage. 1992 saw
the installation of Docks on the Collins Bay waterfront and extensive
renovations were planned.
The mortgage was
paid in 1997 and renovations to the Clubroom, the downstairs Lounge, and an
addition for storage were completed. A new heating and cooling system was
installed for the comfort of the members and their guests.
Today the Legion
Branch 631 is home to more than 450 members. It caters to various functions,
weddings and other Special Events, provides Christmas dinners to seniors from
several Nursing Homes in the Amherstview and Kingston area. We sponsor many
sporting leagues for adults and children alike. Our Youth Education and Bursary
Program has seen many winners from our school district advance to the Provincial
level in Public Speaking and Poster Contests. We are very conscientious of
Veterans, the Poppy Campaign is for Veterans and their Dependants, including
those in nursing homes that require medical supplies or assistance. A Service
Officer is always on hand to help and advise on Pensions and other Veterans
affairs. Branch 631 is community minded and also donates to many Charities in
and around the Kingston Area .
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