Grand Army of the Republic, Kyle Post 41 (Wapaukoneta, Ohio)

Kyle Post 41 of the Grand Army of the Republic (G.A.R.) served Wapakoneta, Ohio. The post formed prior to 1881, first meeting in Wapakoneta's music hall and later moving to their own hall in the southwest portion of the courthouse early in 1882.

In accordance with the principles of the national organization found in April 1866 at Springfield, Illinois, the local members were bound by oath to uphold the ideals of fraternity, charity, and loyalty. The G.A.R. was primarily a military organization whose ritual and procedures adopted a military flavor.

The national organization's growth peaked in 1890 with 409,489 dues-paying members who represented approximately 40% of the Union veterans. The G.A.R. was influential in securing the Disability Pension Act of 1890 and was responsible for the institution and observance of Memorial Day.

By the 1920's the Kyle Post had begun to experience a decline, primarily due to member deaths. Beginning in 1925, the post regularly invited members of its auxiliary, the Woman's Relief Corps, 195, to attend its meetings. Only two agreed to donate all G.A.R. property and holdings to the Woman's Relief Corps. Upon the death of Commander Wentz November 5, 1930, Kyle Post 41 ceased operation.

From the guide to the Grand Army of the Republic, Post 41 Records, 1880-1930, (Wright State University, Special Collections and Archives)