The Boston Post Cane, introduced in 1909, was a unique tradition sent to the selectmen of 700 towns across Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Maine, and Rhode Island. Its purpose was to honor the oldest citizens in each community. This iconic cane was the brainchild of Edwin Grozier, the publisher of the Boston Post, who was inspired by the promotional stunts of his former employer, Joseph Pulitzer.
The canes, crafted from ebony imported from the Congo in Africa and adorned with a crown of 14-karat gold, were symbols of both elegance and tradition. Each cane was a masterpiece, reflecting the fine craftsmanship and attention to detail of its materials.
When it came time to present these prestigious canes, each ceremony varied in its level of ceremonial pomp. Some were grand affairs, filled with dignitaries and community members, while others were more intimate gatherings, held with solemnity and respect.
The recipient of the cane, typically the oldest living male in the municipality, received it with honor and humility. For many, it was a moment of profound significance, marking not only their personal longevity but also their connection to the history and heritage of their community.
As the cane passed from one honored citizen to the next, it carried with it a sense of continuity and legacy, linking generations and preserving the memory of those who had come before. Each new recipient added their own chapter to the story of the Boston Post Cane, ensuring its place as a cherished tradition in their town.
The Town of Wilbraham was among the recipients of the prestigious Boston Post Cane. This special honor was bestowed upon the oldest citizen of Wilbraham, following the tradition established in 1909 by the Boston Post.
The first recipient of the cane was Reverend Nathaniel J. Merrill, aged 94 when he died on August 14, 1912. The Boston Post often covered the presentations, asking recipients about their secret to longevity. Many attributed it to abstaining from alcohol and tobacco or regular use of the same.
Originally reserved exclusively for men, the cane became inclusive of women in the 1930s, marking a step towards gender equality in Wilbraham's traditions. However, this cane wasn't universally welcomed; some communities saw it as a jinx. There were instances where the cane passed to the next recipient, only for them to meet an untimely demise shortly after, fueling superstitions and adding an air of mystery to the tradition.
Despite the Boston Post ceasing publication in 1956, the tradition persisted in many communities. As late as the 1980s, around 400 canes were believed to be in circulation. Presentations continued into the 21st century, sometimes with certificates or replicas due to the scarcity of original canes. Remarkably, some canes resurfaced after being missing for decades, found tucked away in attics, vaults, and closets. One such cane had been missing for over fifty years.
Today, many of these historic canes are retired to displays in town halls and historical societies, preserving the memory of this unique tradition and the honored citizens it celebrated.
Like in other towns, the presentation of the cane in Wilbraham symbolized respect for the wisdom and longevity of its oldest residents. Over the years, the cane has become a cherished part of Wilbraham's history, symbolizing the resilience and longevity of its community. Unfortunately, this tradition was discontinued many years ago, leaving the cane to reside quietly in the town clerk's vault, waiting for its story to be revived and celebrated once more.
An interesting discovery was made regarding the Boston Post Cane: another cane surfaced alongside the original, bearing four sets of initials, W.A.M., A.R.J., N.M., and C.N.M., etched into its head. While made of similar materials, it is not an original Boston Post Cane. This discovery raises intriguing questions. Perhaps this second cane dates back to the 1930s when women were allowed to be included in the tradition, indicating a shift towards recognizing both the oldest man and woman in the community. However, unfortunately, no information is available regarding this second cane, leaving its origins and significance shrouded in mystery.
In 2014, Wilbraham's Golden Cane program was revitalized by Dennis Lopata, Executive Director of Life Care of Wilbraham. His inquiry led Paula Dubord, Director of Elder Affairs, to research and locate the original cane in the town vault. In March 2014, Selectman Jim Thompson presented the Golden Cane to Winifred (Peggy) Stearns on her 103rd birthday. Peggy proudly held this prestigious honor as Wilbraham's oldest resident until her passing at 109 years old on May 2, 2020.
Continuing this historic tradition, Wilbraham will now display the two gold-headed canes at the new Wilbraham Senior Center. The Wilbraham Council on Aging, in collaboration with the Wilbraham Select Board, has established criteria for the Golden Cane presentation:
The recipient must be a resident of Wilbraham for at least five years, verified through the Town Clerk's records.
The Select Board will present the cane to the chosen resident, along with a personalized plaque.
The cane will remain on display at the Senior Center, accompanied by a plaque listing the recipient's name and the year of presentation.
The Director of Elder Affairs will organize the presentation, manage publicity, and maintain a logbook of all recipients.
This initiative ensures the continuation of the Golden Cane tradition, celebrating the town's oldest residents and preserving a unique piece of Wilbraham's history.
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