Wendell designates American Legion Cedric Harris Post 148 as local historic landmark

The Wendell Board of Commissioners voted unanimously to adopt an ordinance designating the American Legion Cedric Harris Post 148 at 5100 Wendell Boulevard as a Wendell Historic Landmark.

The designation recognizes an 896-square-foot log civic building constructed around 1940 and long used by local veterans, supporters told the board during a public hearing. Jeremy Bradham, preservation program manager for Capital Area Preservation (CAPS), said the post is “one of only three known examples of log civic buildings in North Carolina.”

Why it matters: Board members and public speakers said the designation preserves a rare example of twentieth-century log construction in Wake County and protects a longtime site of veteran services and community events. Jim Kelleher, commander of Post 148, described the post’s community activities and veteran support, noting the organization’s sponsorship of youth programs and Memorial Day events.

In his presentation, Bradham described the post’s history: the chapter was first chartered in 1923 and the existing log meeting hall was completed around 1940 using donated materials. The parcel was conveyed to the American Legion in the 1940s and retains original features including saddle-notched logs, exposed chinking and a field-stone foundation. Bradham said the Wake County Historic Preservation Commission unanimously recommended designation to the town board after its June review.

Members of the American Legion and district leaders spoke in support during the public hearing. “Post 148 is your American Legion post,” Jim Kelleher told the board, and other speakers described the post’s role in funerals, flag retirement ceremonies and youth programs.

The board’s motion to adopt the ordinance was made by Commissioner Eamon and carried with the vote called in open session. The ordinance will place the property under Wendell’s local historic landmark protections; the text of the ordinance and the Wake County recommendation are part of the town’s public packet.

The designation does not, by itself, obligate the town to fund repairs or upgrades; speakers noted the post’s limited resources and volunteers who maintain the building. The board and staff encouraged the post to work with town staff and preservation partners on next steps for stewardship and public outreach.