Post History
Mark Twain American Legion Post 137 in Jamestown, Tennessee, carries a proud and historic legacy of service. Co-founded in May 1926 by Sergeant Alvin C. York—one of America’s most decorated soldiers of World War I—Post 137 has remained a steadfast part of the Fentress County community for generations.
World War I and the Alvin C. York Connection
The American Legion was founded in Paris in 1919 by veterans of the Great War, and Sergeant Alvin C. York, a native of Fentress County, was present at that historic organizational meeting. Recognizing the need for fellowship, healing, and advocacy for veterans returning home, York helped establish the local post in Jamestown. In May 1926, the post received its official charter as Mark Twain Post 137, named in honor of the legendary author whose parents had lived in Fentress County prior to his birth.
A Legacy of Education and Opportunity
During the mid-to-late 1920s, Sergeant York traveled across the United States to raise funds for a rural agricultural and trade school in Jamestown. Post 137 and the Tennessee Department of the American Legion played an important role in supporting that mission, with the state-level Legion encouraging posts throughout Tennessee to contribute. When the Alvin C. York Agricultural Institute opened in 1929, it stood as a lasting testament to York’s vision and to the commitment of his fellow Legionnaires.
A Century of Service to Our Community
Today, Post 137 continues to serve as a nonprofit veterans’ organization dedicated to patriotism, community fellowship, youth mentorship, veterans’ outreach, and local charitable support.
- Community Dinners: Post 137’s monthly fish fries and broasted chicken dinners began as local fundraisers and have grown into beloved community traditions that bring neighbors, families, veterans, and supporters together.
- Veterans Outreach: The post works in partnership with the Tennessee Department of Veterans Affairs to host various events that support veterans across the region.
- American Legion Riders: The American Legion Riders Post 137 supports veterans and the broader community through charitable rides and outreach efforts, such as Valentines for Vets and local motorcycle rides for various causes.
In 2026, Post 137 proudly celebrated its 100th anniversary and was recognized by the State of Tennessee for a century of uninterrupted service to Fentress County. As it enters its next century, Mark Twain American Legion Post 137 remains committed to honoring veterans, strengthening community, and upholding the patriotic values on which the American Legion was founded.
Affiliated Organizations
American Legion Riders: The American Legion Riders Post 137 supports veterans and the broader community through charitable rides, outreach efforts, local motorcycle rides for various causes.
Patriotic Days
Mark Twain American Legion Post 137 in Jamestown, TN, anchors the county's public observances on major patriotic holidays like Memorial Day, Veterans Day, and Flag Day. They primarily lead solemn ceremonies, community gatherings, and historical tributes across Fentress County
Scholarships and Community Projects
- Tennessee Boys State: The post fully sponsors local high school juniors to attend this prestigious summer leadership and civics program.
- JROTC Sponsorship: Post 137 frequently collaborates with local school programs, such as the Clarkrange High School JROTC program, offering them platforms during monthly dinners to build leadership skills and raise independent organizational funds
- The post utilizes its fundraising revenue to assist regional veterans struggling with medical bills, housing instability, or emergency financial needs.
