100 years ago: First Regiment Band performed concerts in Central Park

The First Regiment Band and a Hannibal Community Band were among the participants in the early shows in Hannibal's Central Park, dating as early as 1909 and continuing throughout the 1920s. The First Regiment , a 15-piece brass band, performed until 1920. Throughout the years, the performers played for their own pleasure, offering free concerts to residents. Often the city and merchants joined together to underwrite the band's expenses.