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A former janitor was presented with a cherished community award, celebrating his accomplishments through a long-standing New England tradition. Clinton Ritchie of Sullivan, Maine, was awarded the Boston Post Cane at a recent meeting of the Sullivan Select Board. The Board’s President, Norman Bamford, provided a certificate alongside the cane when congratulating Ritchie on this honor.

The Boston Post Cane is a custom originated by the Boston Post newspaper. In 1909, carved ebony canes with 14-carat gold heads were presented to the oldest male citizen in each of the 700 Northeast towns they were issued. At 95 years old, Ritchie was recognized not only for his age but also for his longstanding commitment to children and the township as a former custodian.

According to The Ellsworth American, Ritchie worked as Head Custodian at the former Sumner Memorial High School for two decades. His dedication was recognized in 2021, when the school’s newly built gymnasium was named after him. Now retired, he spends his days alongside his wife, Eleanor, continuing his life of service by engaging with his community and celebrating his lifetime accomplishments with this award.