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A special reunion for the Capron family
Top Headlines On Saturday, 333 years later, dozens of his descendants who have found their way to all corners of the nation plan to hold a family reunion in Attleboro, the city of their roots. The event will be held in Capron Park, which was named in 1901 for a 20th century descendant of Banfield - Dennis Capron. Dennis' children donated 36 acres for the park that's commonly referred to as the Jewelry City's jewel. A six-acre corner of the County Street park is home to the city's popular zoo. Sue Ellen Capron, of Tempe, Ariz., organized the event to which 75 Caprons have been invited. Caprons living in Florida, California, Virginia, New York and Pennsylvania are expected to trickle into the city this week, she said. Sue Ellen said she's not sure how many Caprons will make it to the reunion because the high cost of gasoline and airline tickets has thrown a wrench into the plans of some, but she's hoping for a good crowd. Caprons have been holding reunions regularly for about 10 years, she said. Usually, they gather in Corry, Pa. The Attleboro reunion, which will be held on the large grassy area of Capron Park known as "the Flats," will include special events such as the lighting of the Capron Torch, a welcoming speech by Mayor Kevin Dumas and a presentation about Capron history by Marian Wrightington, chairwoman of the city's historical commission. Wrightington lives in a North Avenue home built around 1740 that once belonged to one of the children of Banfield Capron. It was in the Capron family for more than 200 years. Another item on the agenda will be a discussion of giving a gift to the city, in the form of a project for the park or perhaps an ongoing trust fund, Sue Ellen said. Parks Superintendent Sonny Almeida said he's thrilled to have the Caprons using the park. "This is a big deal," he said.
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