Tucked away on Belardo Road, the American Legion Post No. 519 might appear at first glance like any other modest, single-story building in Palm Springs. Yet, a closer look reveals a space steeped in history and architectural significance, offering a glimpse into the city’s vibrant past and unique cultural heritage.
Cary Grant was one of the movie stars who participated in the American Legion Post No. 519 live broadcasts.
A Storied Beginning
The story of Post No. 519 begins in 1934, founded by a group of World War I veterans who sought to create a gathering place for their comrades. Among them was Earl Coffman, a prominent Palm Springs resident whose dedication to the cause led to the post being named in honor of his son, Owen, who tragically lost his life during World War II. Initially, the group convened at the Desert Inn, but the dream of a permanent home drove them to raise funds for a dedicated building.
The Visionaries Behind the Design
To bring their vision to life, the members of Post No. 519 enlisted the talents of renowned architects John Porter Clark and Albert Frey. These architects were instrumental in shaping the architectural landscape of Palm Springs and were tasked with creating a structure that would serve as a fitting memorial for the veterans while embodying the progressive spirit of the era. The result was the War Memorial Building, which opened its doors on January 3, 1948, to much anticipation and fanfare.
A Peek Inside: Architectural Highlights
As you cross the threshold of the building, the unique design elements begin to unfold. The asymmetrical entryway sets the tone, inviting visitors into a space that is anything but ordinary. This entry is just the first hint of the architectural innovation that characterizes the building, which is a fine example of the Late Modern style. This style draws inspiration from the horizontal lines and warm palette popularized by Frank Lloyd Wright, as well as the clean, unadorned lines of International Style architecture.
The building’s primary volume is a simple, unadorned box, but it is enlivened by a series of decorative touches that showcase the architects’ creativity. Notable features include corrugated architectural glass walls that add texture and interest, and a heavily angled roof supported by a single pole. This roof, a defining characteristic of the structure, features a lamella (or Zollinger) design—a type of vaulted roof known for its intricate lattice-like pattern, which unfortunately is now hidden by a dropped ceiling installed in the 1970s.
A 1938 RCA Microphone – 77B – stands in the broadcast booth at American Legion Owen Coffman Post 519
Historic Venue for Modern Celebrations
A few years back historic Post No. 519 hosted a special event as part of the Modernism Week Fall Preview. The “Past Meets Present” offered guests a rare opportunity to explore this architectural gem and learn about its storied history. The afternoon was a lively mix of activities, including a talk on the post’s history, guided tours, cocktails, appetizers, and live music by Freddie Fender Jr. and the Trainor Bros. Band. This event marked the first time the building was open to the public for a Modernism Week celebration, and it was a not-to-be-missed occasion for architecture enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
A Stage for Stars: The Music Legacy
Post No. 519 is not only significant for its architectural features but also for its rich musical history. In the 1940s and 1950s, the post was a popular venue for live broadcasts of the Kraft Music Hall variety show, a national radio program that drew some of the biggest names in entertainment. The hall’s stage played host to legendary performers such as Al Jolson, Frank Sinatra, and Doris Day, who sang and entertained live audiences while the program was broadcast across the country.
Central to these performances was a 1905 Steinway baby grand piano, which remains a treasured artifact of the post’s musical past. This piano, still present on the stage, accompanied stars like Bob Hope, Groucho Marx, Judy Garland, Jack Benny, Oscar Levant, Bing Crosby, Cary Grant, and David Niven, making it a silent witness to a golden era of Hollywood and American entertainment.
The Architectural Details: A Closer Look
The Late Modern style of the building is evident in its clean lines and minimalist approach, yet it also incorporates distinctive features that add character and charm. The corrugated glass walls, for example, create a dynamic interplay of light and shadow within the interior, enhancing the sense of space and openness. This design choice reflects the architects’ intent to blend functionality with aesthetic appeal, a hallmark of modernist architecture.
Another striking feature is the building’s roof, originally designed with an additional seven feet of height, which was reduced when a dropped ceiling was added in the 1970s. This modification concealed the lamella roof, a structural and visual marvel that once gave the hall a lofty, cathedral-like atmosphere. The lamella design, also known as a Zollinger roof, is characterized by its interlocking diamond-shaped pattern, which provides both strength and elegance. While now hidden, the roof remains an integral part of the building’s architectural identity.
Engaging the Community: A Vision for the Future
American Legion Post No. 519 is not just a relic of the past; it is a living part of the Palm Springs community. Open daily from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., the post welcomes the public for a variety of events, including lunches, Friday dinners, and Sunday brunches. Special events, like the upcoming Modernism Week celebration, offer unique opportunities for residents and visitors to connect with the history and culture of the area.
The post’s involvement in community events is driven by a desire to share its rich history with a broader audience. This outreach effort is seen as a way to honor the legacy of those who built and sustained the post, as well as to educate new generations about the significance of this historic site. The Modernism Week event, in particular, aims to highlight the architectural and cultural contributions of the post, fostering a deeper appreciation for the preservation of historical landmarks.
Earl Coffman, owner of the Desert Inn and founder of the Palm Springs American Legion with his son, Owen Coffman
Bing Crosby and Bob Hope share the NBC microphone stationed at the American Legion Post No. 519 to broadcast the Kraft Music Hall variety show.
Judy Garland, Al Jolson, and pianist Oscar Levant were on stage at Post 519, playing on the 1905 Steinway that remains there to this day.
A Legacy Preserved
As Palm Springs continues to evolve, the preservation of landmarks like American Legion Post No. 519 becomes increasingly important. These sites serve as tangible connections to the past, offering insights into the lives and experiences of previous generations. The post stands as a testament to the ingenuity and vision of its founders and designers, as well as to the enduring spirit of the community it serves.
Visiting Post No. 519
For those interested in exploring this unique piece of Palm Springs history, American Legion Post No. 519 is located at 400 N. Belardo Road. The post is open daily, though hours may vary seasonally. Visitors can enjoy a meal, take in the historic surroundings, and participate in various community events. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor to Palm Springs, a visit to Post No. 519 offers a fascinating glimpse into the city’s architectural and cultural heritage.
For more information on events, history, or to plan your visit, check out the post’s website at palmspringslegion.org. Here, you’ll find details on upcoming events, historical anecdotes, and ways to get involved with this vibrant community hub.
The original 1905 Steinway that Garland and others employed in their broadcasts remains at the legion today, under protective cover between performances
