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KENSINGTON — At the 11th hour on the 11th day of the 11th month in 1919 the Armistice was signed ending the Great War, the War to end all Wars; World War I. Cities and town throughout the USA celebrated that day; one of those towns was Kensington, Kansas.

On November 11, 1919, the Kensington community celebrated the first anniversary of that great day. On November 9, 2019 (closest Saturday to the 11th) they will celebrate for the one hundredth year. During the 100 years, there have been only two cancellations, one during World War II and one due to a blizzard. It is believed this the oldest celebration of Armistice Day/Veterans Day in the Nation

The pattern for this year’s celebration follows the 100-year tradition of a special speaker, a salute to all veterans, a huge parade and the best roast beef and navy beans anywhere around. There are afternoon activities and a dance in the American Legion Hall to wind up the Day. The event is hosted by the Sons of the American Legion of Fred Marran Post 166. Post 166 is also celebrating their centennial year.

The Speaker is Retired MSG Marti Mace with nearly 30 years of service in the US Army; carrying the title, “American Military Piper.” She is a third-generation military veteran, joining the Army just out of high school. She has been playing the bagpipes since childhood and now plays them to honor veterans, living and dead around the World. Her latest honor was to be the only American Piper invited to play on the Beaches of Normandy, France in recognition of the 75th Anniversary of D-Day. She is a native of southwest Kansas and has never forgotten her roots.

All are invited to come to Kensington, Kansas on November 9, 2019 to enjoy a great celebration and meet an outstanding veteran of the Armed Forces. You can visit a small rural community that has maintained a patriotic tradition for 100 years solely through private donations and volunteer labor.