During the summer of 1926 Susanville was full of energy preparing for the upcoming State American Legion Convention. There were lots of fundraising activities to be had. After all, the local post thought the cost for being host would be around $5,000. In June, they had raised $3,000.

One fund raising venue was the construction of an open air dance pavilion. On Saturday night, July 10, 1926 the grand opening dance was held. Glen Tout’s orchestra furnished the music, with its slogan “Pep to Every Step.” There was certainly a lot pep in those steps as the Tout orchestra played its final tune on Sunday morning at 4:45 a.m. The dances continued every Saturday night through the summer.

Finally, it should be noted, the local legion post ended up with a $4,000 debt after the convention. On the bright side, not only was Susanville put on the map, but the attendees spread the word of the royal treatment they received from the community throughout the state.

Tim