Hosting social events for the community, providing scholarships and taking part in patriotic celebrations are just some of the activities of Col. Jacob Morgan American Legion Post 537 located in Morgantown.

The American Legion is a veterans organization, but memberships are also available to others. "We have veterans, which are called the Legionnaires, and we have people that have no association with a veteran, which are the social members," explained Linda Jacobs, post historian. The post also includes the Sons of American Legion, which is for members whose parents served in the U.S. military, the ladies auxiliary and the American Legion Riders motorcycle group.

One of the most popular events hosted by the post is its monthly chicken barbecue. The first one of the season was held on April 2, during which post commander Brian Shepker dressed as a chicken, entertaining the customers as they picked up their chicken dinners.

The next chicken barbecue will be held on Saturday, May 7, from 10 a.m. until sold out. In addition to the chicken, the dinner includes a baked potato, coleslaw and a roll. Also offered for sale at the May event will be hanging baskets and potted plants suitable for Mother's Day gift-giving on the following day.

"Our members cook, and we usually sell out by 11:30 or 12 (noon)," said Jacobs. "That's how good our chicken dinners are."

The post offers various social events, including karaoke and trivia nights and open pool nights on Fridays. Guests must be accompanied by a member.

Annual events that are open to the community include an Easter egg hunt and Christmas parties for children and adults. "(For the adult party), we auction off gifts; it's the same day as the kids' Christmas party," Jacobs pointed out. "We have Santa and Mrs. Claus and elves, and we have a big sleigh outside, and parents can take pictures."

The post also awards an annual scholarship to a Twin Valley High School student, participates in Wreaths Across America and holds a Veterans Day ceremony, followed by a free dinner for veterans and their spouses. A color guard from the post provides a rifle salute and taps during Memorial Day ceremonies held in both Elverson and Morgantown. Also participating in the ceremonies are members of Boy Scout Troop 37, which is sponsored by the American Legion.

Most recently, the post installed a Little Free Library, where local residents are invited to take a book or donate a book.

"We are small but mighty," Jacobs added.

American Legion Post 537 is located at 4499 N. Twin Valley Road, Morgantown. For more information about the post, club activities and membership information, call 610-286-5920 or search for "Col. Jacob Morgan American Legion Post 537" on Facebook.