Program

NYS Historic

Subject

People, Site

Location

10053 State St, Dalton, NY 14836, USA

Lat/Long

42.540242, -77.95003

Grant Recipient

Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War Abraham Lincoln Camp 6 Rochester NY

Chartered in 1884, the Grand Army of the Republic Thompson Post 190 consisted of veterans of the Union Army in Dalton, New York. Their post was in honor of the local Thompson brothers, James and Cordenio, who were killed in service during the American Civil War.

The Grand Army of the Republic (GAR) was a fraternal organization consisting of members of the Union Army. At one point, the GAR held significant political sway and could claim to be a deciding factor in elections at both the state and national level. They remained a prevalent force in the country, though dwindling numbers—due to the passing of members—eventually led to the organization dissolving in the 1950s. Their legacy and mission was, and is, carried on by the Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War.

Though the organization held a sweeping national presence during the late-19^th and early-20^th century, the GAR’s influence seeped into the local level as well. Here, local chapters of the GAR participated in parades, served their community through volunteer efforts, and honored the memories of fallen comrades who had died during the Civil War. For the Dalton community, the Thompson chapter were responsible for constructing a gathering hall in 1888, which still stands today.

The former G.A.R. Hall situated on State Street is a reminder of the civic efforts of the G.A.R. Thompson Post 190 and the sacrifices made by its members during the Civil War. The building is currently the headquarters of the American Legion Arland-Kelley Post #1569.