The following teaser article was found in the Sept. 14, 1923 Morning Olympian. As you can see, Oly had only a very small role in the broader tale. But I suspect there is a great story behind Mr. Chapman's journey, and any writer/historian willing to invest the research and time would probably hit paydirt in terms of drama and interest.

AGED WALKER HERE ON LONG, LONG HIKE

William H. Chapman, a 76 year old hiker from Milwaukee, passed through Olympia Thursday on his way to New Orleans. Mr. Chapman is competing in an age-against-youth contest for $5000 offered by the American magazine company. He is the only survivor of four entrants; the contestants to go on foot from Milwaukee, through Canada, across the Imperial Desert and to New Orleans.

J. Grant Hinkle, secretary of state signed an affidavit of welcome to add to the file being carried by the aged hiker. He has letters of courtesy from mayors, governors and other officials of many of the Canadian cities as well as from those in cities on this side of the border.

Mr. Chapman, whose home is in Millington, Con., started his trip July 23 and has crossed to the coast since then. Rules of the contest, in which he is entered, permit him to accept gratis rides in automobiles but stipulate he must pay his expenses as he goes by soliciting aid.