Keystone Kops II

Pepperell’s 250th Anniversary Committee is excited to announce the Pepperell Keystone Kops remake for our upcoming celebration line up. Originally conducted in 1975 and 1976 to celebrate the town’s 200th Anniversary and our nation’s Bicentennial, the first version of the Pepperell Kops was created by residents, and it was a huge success. Copying elements of the original circa 1912 slapstick comedy that was produced by Mack Sennet, Pepperell’s version brought back memories of the mischievous English Bobbies, using costumes sewn by Louise Shattuck and creating unique props like this handmade wooden billy club, 

The original Pepperell Keystone Kops leveraged their success and popularity to help raise money for the Jimmy Fund and the Heart Fund. As they paraded their antics throughout the country from California to the east coast, they raised a substantial amount of money over the course of two years. As a result of one proud resident, who had the courage and determination to write to President Ford, the president praised and recognized our community for their efforts then joined in on the fun and agreed to be arrested by the Kops at the parade in Lexington Massachusetts. Some of the Pepperell Kops and members of the team who were responsible for the success included, Fred Farmer, Kenny English, Bobby Whitcomb, Jimmy Farmer, Louise Shattuck, Dick Munn, Phil Durno, John Lohnes, Jean Grant, Bob Lindgren and more. The original version is truly a gem from Pepperell’s history, and we thank them all for the memories!

Today, the 250th Anniversary Committee plans to add to the memories and create a different comical version of the Pepperell Keystone Kops in honor of Pepperell’s Birthday. Where will the Kops show up this time? Expect to find them at upcoming community events when you least expect it. Don’t miss the fun and shenanigans to find out who the Kops are arresting this time!