Exterior of the historic American Legion Post on Riddle Road in Durham, which was recently vandalized and burglarized in a devastating theft targeting veterans' history and personal documents.
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Thieves Ransack Historic American Legion Post on Riddle Road; Steal Artifacts, Sensitive Records

@SpectacularMag Staff

North Carolina’s second-oldest American Legion post for Black veterans was left vandalized and violated in a break-in that targeted priceless history and community trust.

DURHAM, NC — Members of the Weaver-McLean American Legion Auxiliary Unit 175 are devastated after discovering a break-in of their historic post at 2110 Riddle Road that resulted in the theft of irreplaceable military memorabilia, personal records, and thousands of dollars in equipment.

The Legion Post — chartered in 1926 and housed on Riddle Road since 1954 — was originally established for African American soldiers returning home after being excluded from other American Legion chapters. Though open to all today, the post remains a powerful symbol of pride and service in Durham’s Black veteran community.

A Sacred Space Violated

The break-in was discovered on Tuesday when a member of the post stopped by and found the door busted open and the yard flooded. Members believe the culprits cut the water line to gain access. Their last meeting had taken place at the end of June, with everything in place and locked.

“It floored me,” said Adrienne Sutton, Commander of Post 175. “They went through everything. They took everything of value.”

What Was Stolen

The thieves made off with thousands of dollars in equipment, but the most devastating losses were historical and personal:

  • A POW flag
  • A World War II helmet
  • Thousands of U.S. flags
  • A computer containing veterans’ End of Service forms with social security numbers
  • A printer, air conditioning unit, cameras, and even a coffee maker

“I saw all the papers all over the place. Then I got to looking around and seeing things that they have taken,” said Donald Barbee, the Post’s Treasurer. “It’s just like coming into my personal home. It’s not right.”

A Legacy of Service at Risk

The Weaver-McLean American Legion Post is the second-oldest post for Black veterans in Durham County. Beyond its storied past, it serves as a community anchor and safe haven for veterans and their families.

Members say the vandalism wasn’t just a property crime — it was an attack on a space built by and for those who sacrificed in service to their country.

Call for Community Support

The Durham Police Department is actively investigating the break-in. Meanwhile, members of the post are asking for the public’s help in:

  • Providing tips that may lead to arrests
  • Donating funds or supplies to help restore what was lost
  • Volunteering to help clean and repair the post

Anyone with information is urged to contact the Durham Police Department, or reach out directly to Weaver-McLean Post 175.

Photo: Google Earth