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Garrett Cochran American Legion Post 1 has the distinction of being the first Legion in Pennsylvania, and its members would like to have more people become part of it.
Toward that end, Post 1 recently held an open house showcasing its site to the public and rolling out food, games, raffles and fellowship at Third and Market streets in downtown Williamsport.
"We are looking to draw more new members," said Frank Hinds Sr., commander, Sons of American Legion Post 1. "I was never in the military, but many family members were. This is a way to pay back."
Although the Post has about 1,000 members, that number is significantly down from the membership of what it once had been.
"We have the same problems all organizations have with recruiting members," Post 1 treasurer Walter Sinatra said.
Family-oriented events such as the open house are part of that effort.
Sinatra said the Legion carries out activities such as placing flags on veterans' graves and participating in events that honor those who've served in the military.
"We do free meals for veterans," he said.
Post 1 also sponsors local American Legion youth baseball teams and scouting organizations.
Post 1 headquarters is the site of weekly bingo games as well as various other events at different times, including musical entertainment and breakfasts.
And, each year, the Post hands out several scholarships to graduating high school seniors.
The membership would like Post 1 to continue doing all it does.
"It's time to get a few new members," Post 1 commander Charles Klinefelter said. "We want to show the community what we have to offer."
Post 1 can trace its origins to October 1919 when Survivors of the 12th Regiment Spanish American War Veterans met in Williamsport to organize a campaign to raise money for a Post Home.
Post 1 was originally established at 419 W. Fourth St., Williamsport, and later relocated to 10 E. Third St. before eventually moving to its present Market Street Square site.
Helen Wright, president of the Post 1 Auxiliary, is part of the effort to help the Legion flourish as an organization.
"We work as a team," she said. "Anything to support veterans and the club."
The organization, she noted, is always welcome to new members.
Polly Lehman, treasurer of the Auxiliary, said many fundraisers are held to keep Post 1 afloat.
The headquarters site has been undergoing renovations, including the rebuilding of a kitchen and a new air conditioning system.