Post History

The History of American Legion Post 201 – Florence Villa

Chartered July 29, 1946

American Legion Post 201 in Florence Villa received its charter on July 29, 1946. The founding members were David Blevins (the first Post Commander), Elmer D. Geathers, Robert Lewis, James Thomas, Moses Rush, Joseph S. Darby, Edward Grant, Comer Gainer, Theodora Davis, Richard Johnson, Lee Burks, Eddie Austin, and Simmie McNeil.

The Post was named in honor of Carter Mather, a distinguished World War I veteran and member of the Colored Veterans of World War. Since American Legion Posts cannot be named after living persons, Mather—who passed away in 1939—was a fitting honoree.

A Legacy Born from Service and Sacrifice

Although the National American Legion had no official policy excluding Black members, the Jim Crow South maintained segregated posts. After the end of World War II in 1945, more than one million Black veterans nationwide—including over 50,000 from Florida—returned home determined to secure the democracy they had fought to defend abroad. They demanded equality, respect, and representation within veteran and civic life.
It was during this time that Post 201 was founded—one of Florida’s early segregated Black American Legion Posts.

Honoring Carter Mather

Carter Mather was one of the 380,000 Black Americans who served in World War I, among 350,000 who served overseas, and one of 13,000 from Florida.
In 1918, he departed from New Jersey for France as a Private First Class in the U.S. Army. He was later promoted to Sergeant, serving courageously in the Meuse-Argonne Offensive—the largest battle in U.S. military history, involving 1.2 million American troops between September 26 and November 11, 1918. The offensive proved decisive in forcing Germany to end the war.

The Seeds of Change

Historians often note that World War I and later World War II planted the seeds of the modern Civil Rights Movement.
When Black soldiers returned home to Florence Villa, they became vocal advocates for better schools, community improvements, and fair working conditions—transforming both the civic landscape and community spirit of Winter Haven.

A Pillar of the Community

For many years, Post 201 was located on First Street, where it served as a vital social and civic hub for Florence Villa. At the turn of the 21st century, the Post relocated to its current home on Lake Maude at
900 Avenue S NE, Winter Haven, Florida, where it continues to honor veterans, support families, and serve as an enduring cornerstone of the community.

Legacy and Continuation

Today, American Legion Post 201 – Florence Villa remains dedicated to the four pillars of the American Legion:
Veterans Affairs & Rehabilitation, National Security, Americanism, and Children & Youth.
Its legacy stands as a powerful testament to courage, service, and the ongoing pursuit of equality.