SEVEN D.C. THEATERS CLOSED IN INTEREST OF PUBLIC SAFETY
Washington, D.C. (JFK+50) On February 19, 1922, the Sunday Star reports that seven local theaters were closed by authorities last night "in the interest of public safety."
The action came after a conference between District commissioners and a committee of "unofficial experts which made an inspection of all amusement places at the request of the District government."
Inspector Clifford L. Grant went to each of the theaters in question "and served notice on the managers in charge."
In response to a reporter's question, Commissioner Charles Keller said the decision to close these theaters was based on "structural conditions and fire risks."
Senator Arthur Capper* (R-Kansas), a member of the District Committee, said...
"I think...it is a wise precaution. I know there has been a lot of distrust among people here since the wreck of the Knickerbocker Theater.**"
*Arthur Capper (1865-1951) was born in Garnett, Kansas & served as Governor of Kansas 1915-1919, & U.S. Senator 1919-1949. AC was owner of radio station WIBW in Topeka & publisher of the Topeka Daily Capital.
**The roof of the Knickerbocker Theater collapsed on January 28, 1922 under the weight of heavy snow resulting in many deaths & injuries.
SOURCES
"Police Close Seven Theaters By Order Of Commissioners; Found Unsafe By Inspectors," The Sunday Star, Washington, D.C., Chronicling America, Library of Congress, www.loc.gov/
"'Wise Precaution,' Capper's Comment On Theater Closing," The Sunday Star, Washington, D.C., Chronicling America, Library of Congress, www.loc.gov/
