Historic tidbits from “The Story of Hannibal” by J. Hurley and Roberta Hagood:
Following the Civil War, the First Regiment Band presented weekly concerts in Central Park. In the 1890s, the bandstand was located nearer the center of the park where the fountain is now located.
The earliest chautauquas were held at Central Park, with the tent pitched on Fifth Street. The walks of the park were brilliantly lighted. During the 1900-1909 decade, speakers included Samuel Gompers, William Jennings Bryan, strickland Gililand, Jane Adams of Hull House and H.L. Mencken.
During the Roaring Twenties, the Hannibal band presented weekly concerts in Central Park during the summer months.
For many families, Saturday night was the crowning event of the week during the 1920s. Central Park had the onoy benches where shoppers could rest and relieve tired feet. To get the most out of Saturday night, one had to at least visit the dime stores and Central Park, it was fun and it was free.
