History of the War Memorial
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he original bleacher planks were provided by three local lumber companies (Ball, Goodwin, and Palmore). Dunn Chevrolet fabricated the metal framework for the spectator stands.
The gymnasium was used by Powhatan High School, and later by Huguenot Academy for basketball games and school events such as proms through the 1950’s and 60’s. community dinners and dances were also held there frequently. Brayer Pontiac would hold an annual dance to unveil the new Pontiac cars to the general public. Bi-monthly dances to help with the building fund were held throughout the decade. A local band such as James Sullivan’s played regional and country music. Many clubs and organizations such as Order of the Eastern Star, 4-H, American Legion, and Ruritans have used the building over the years. There have been auctions, sales, and even a sewing factory was set up for business there briefly. The building itself has never been owned by the county. From its inception in 1950 until 1970, it was operated by the War Memorial Association.
1940
It All Started With Community
The first discussions for a “citizen-funded community center and armory” happened across Powhatan County
Late 1949
Construction Begins
An 18-acre tract of land for the building site was approved by the county in November of 1949, and the actual construction began in December of that same year.
Memorial Day 1950
Dedication Ceremony
The dedication ceremony for the new War Memorial was an all-day affair. The building’s cornerstone was laid by members of the Masonic Lodge Temple #295, US Congressman Watkins M. Abbitt gave the keynote address, and music was provided by the Powhatan High School Band. The evening wrapped up with a baseball game and a dance. This began 20 years of management by the War Memorial Association
Fun Fact!
The playing fields were “dug out” by an Army surplus bulldozer obtained by the School Superintendent, J.S. Cardwell!
1971
Managed by the Masons
Starting in 1970, the War Memorial was operated by the Masonic Lodge
2020
Headline
In 2020, the guard isn’t the management? figure this out
YEAR
HEADLINE
Early fundraising iniatives were had already been planned when World War II intervened. Shortly after the war, efforts regained momentum. A non-profit committee of residents, chaired by W.E. Maxey Jr., with assistance from Mrs. Eloise H. Powell and George K. Wright, began the daunting task of financing the project. The price tag for a proposed two-story center was set at $63,000.
February 1950
Headline
Powhatan business and civic leaders, including E. Floyd Yates, Winfrey Parker, W.R. Blandford, and Colonel Skaggs, helped petition the county to donate $12,000 to support the Memorial’s construction and (kitting out). The State of Virginia also pledged $10,000. The remaining cost was raised by members of the community through bonds, donations, dinners, and dances.
1952
Final Construction Finishes
The final touches were finished on the property. The building now featured a large gymnasium, lockers, office space, meeting rooms, a large kitchen, and the adjacent playing fields.
1981
Transferring Ownership
In 1981, the Masons gave the building, pls 1.8 acres, to the Virginia Army National Guard, with the stipulation that the state would provide maintenance