The building that houses American Legion Post 507 was donated to the group by silent Western film star William S. Hart in 1941. It cost $25,000 to build and had 400 seats. Admission for adults was 30 cents and 10 cents for children.

The building still stands, but instead of films, the space is a gathering space for American veterans.

Erik Lindgreen, of the newly formed American Legion Riders Post 507, said the group will host a barbecue event Saturday to honor all active, recently discharged military and Blue and Gold Star mothers.

“We wanted to show our allegiance and gratitude to those who serve,” said Lindgreen. “We want to show everyone that there are people established in the community who will stand by the military and will continue to help and serve.”

The BBQ will begin at 1 p.m. and feature tri-tip and chicken, as well as food donated by members of the Post, the Post auxiliary and Santa Clarita Valley businesses.

“We’re hoping to get some chicken donated, but if it doesn’t happen the Riders will cook the chicken and the tri-tip,” said Lindgreen.

Lindgreen, of Saugus, said the Riders began at the Newhall Post in August with “three founding fathers.” The group became sanctioned on Oct. 17 and now boasts 30 members.

Saturday’s event will include an opening flag ceremony performed by the Valencia High School ROTC, food and a 50-50 raffle.

Actress Kristy Swanson and husband Lloyd Eisler of Saugus are also members of the Riders.

“Lloyd has been a member of the Legion for more than 20 years in Canada,” said Swanson. “He rides a Harley and I ride a Spider so they adopted us into the American Legion riders group. It’s so important to support our military, they are out there putting their lives on the line to defend our freedom.”

Lindgreen said the purpose of the BBQ is to let the community know, as well as members of the military and their parents, that there is a group in the SCV that wants to help.

“People should know they are not alone. As a Vietnam veteran myself I am determined that there won’t be a repeat of history,” said Lindgreen. “This event is really designed to show the support and the commitment of individuals to our military. There are a lot of young men and women who have signs of post-traumatic stress disorder who might not realize it.”

Lindgreen said the Legion wants to provide a forum where veterans and other military can gather and find support.

“We want them to know that there are people here who are willing to open their arms and share experiences and information with them. Many times that starts the healing,” he said.

Lindgreen said the event is structured to be casual and family-friendly.

“We also have invited a representative of the Veteran’s Administration to give an overview of the benefits and assistance that is available,” he said. “There will also be information for the parents of sons and daughters who are still on active duty and some information on what they can expect and how they can help their children.”

Lindgreen said the Riders are committed to doing charity work in the community. The group has already raised funds for breast-cancer support and veterans affairs.

“We want people to know that we’re here and we want to be an asset to the community,” he said.

The American Legion Post 507 has a membership of nearly 200 and Lindgreen said he would like to see it used as a resource by military members and their parents.

“Sometimes it helps to talk to another vet,” he said. “We want to be a source of help to veterans.”

RSVPs are requested for Saturday’s event, but Lindgreen said walk-ins will be welcomed.

For information on how to donate or to RSVP to the event to be held 1 p.m. Saturday at the American Legion Post 507, 24527 Spruce St., Newhall contact Eric Lindgreen at elindgreen@sbcglobal.net or (661) 296-6651.