Disclaimer: The following was transcribed from the Capper Foundation Archives. The choice of words used at the time this was written may not reflect current Capper Foundation inclusive language and views.

War Did Not Interfere With the Capper Picnic (1942)

In spite of the war and its disruption of so many activities, Senator Capper’s birthday picnic in Topeka was the usual huge success it always has been. In fact, in some respects it set new records. The estimated attendance of 18,000 has rarely been equaled.

It was the Senator’s 77th birthday and the 35th annual picnic he has given to the children, although this annual celebration has long since ceased to be just a children’s party; the whole family enjoys it now. Senator Capper came all the way from Washington to serve as host for his annual party. He has missed only two so far.

Everything was free for the children. They ate 15,000 cones of ice cream, 450 gallons, rode the merry-go-round, two Ferris wheels, circle swing and a herd of real, live ponies, all with the compliments of Senator Capper, whose guests they were for the day. There were ball games and other athletic contests with prizes for the winners. Busses of the Topeka street transportation system hauled the children free to and from Ripley Park.