Seattle-Tacoma International Airport is currently home to an intriguing exhibition that celebrates the rich history of baseball through the eyes of Charles Kapner, a dedicated baseball aficionado from Seattle. This captivating display, available for viewing until the conclusion of the baseball season, offers a unique glimpse into Seattle’s baseball past, long before the Mariners became a household name.

Charles Kapner’s fascination with baseball dates back to the early 1960s, when he would eagerly search grocery store aisles for cereal boxes adorned with baseball cards. Growing up in the Broadview neighborhood of Seattle, Kapner’s interest in the sport’s history and statistics was a natural fit for his career in accounting.

Now 56 and serving as a business manager at a private school, Kapner has curated an impressive collection of baseball memorabilia. The airport exhibit, strategically located on the ticketing level, showcases a selection of his treasures, including the final home plate from Sicks’ Seattle Stadium and jerseys from a 1969 Seattle Pilots father-son game.

Unveiling Seattle’s Baseball Heritage

The exhibition also features a striking black-and-white photograph of the 1912 Seattle Giants, capturing the team alongside their stern owner, Daniel Dugdale. Another notable piece is a scorebook used by broadcaster Bill Schonely during a Pilots game, a tribute to the team’s short-lived yet impactful presence in Seattle before relocating to become the Milwaukee Brewers in 1969.

Kapner’s collection is more than just a compilation of artifacts; it represents the meaningful connections he has established with individuals associated with the sport. Through his collection, he has met former players, their families, and fellow collectors, deepening his appreciation for baseball’s storied past.

Fostering Bonds Through Baseball

One of Kapner’s cherished connections is with Marlene Houtchens, a Redmond resident who babysat for Rainiers players’ children in the 1950s. After learning about her in a 1994 article, Kapner reached out, and they have since developed a friendship. Houtchens has contributed to his collection, providing a Rainiers jersey and other memorabilia.

Kapner’s enthusiasm for baseball extends beyond collecting; it encompasses playing Little League and coaching his stepson’s team. He frequently shares his collection at various events, aiming to inspire others with his love for the game.

“It’s a way of sharing my passion,” Kapner expressed. “Perhaps somewhere out there, there’s a child, and this sparks a passion in them.”