Lavalle Square

Private Arthur G. Lavalle, a native of 38 Salem Street, served in the Massachusetts National Guard during World War I. He was born in 1898 in Salem. Prior to his service, he worked as a teamster. Private LaValle initially enlisted on June 19th, 1916 to Company H, 8th Infantry, Massachusetts National Guard, where he served on the Mexican Border. Later, he officially reported for duty on July 25th, 1917 and mustered on August 1st, 1917. He was later transferred on August 25th, 1917 to Company H, 2nd Infantry, Massachusetts National Guard (Company H, 104th Infantry, 26th Division) and arrived overseas on October 5, 1917.

Tragically, Private Lavalle was killed in action near Vigneuilles, France on September 13th, 1918. His remains are buried in the St. Mihiel American Cemetery in Thaiucourt, France. He was the son of Placide and Celanine (Boulanger) Lavalle. His great niece, Professor Jeanne Lavalle wrote a book about him, entitled “So Far From Story Street”. A copy resides at the Salem State University library.

His square is located at the corner of Congress and Palmer Streets, dedicated in his honor.