The Town of Salem, NH is on the lookout for the oldest resident to bestow the distinctive honor of being the recipient of the Boston Post Cane. The honor is a century-old tradition started by the now-defunct Boston Post newspaper.

Records show that imported ebony canes crowned with 14-karat gold were first distributed to selectmen in hundreds of New England towns. They were instructed to keep passing it down to the oldest living resident as a sign of respect.

Over time, both the program and cane were lost in Salem.

In May 2005, Salem Senior Services and the Salem Council on Aging decided to revive the Boston Post Cane program and underwrote the cost to have a replica cane produced and engraved.

Anyone who believes they know the appropriate Salem resident should notify them and/or complete a nomination form on their behalf.  Click here for the Nomination form.  Completed forms can be emailed to Wendy Peters (wpeters@salemnh.gov) or mailed to: Salem Senior Services, Ingram Senior Center, 1 Sally Sweets Way, Salem, NH 03079

Eligibility:
The holder of the cane must be at least 90 years of age, reside in the Town of Salem, and have been a resident for a minimum of 20 years. The term “resident” refers to a person who has physically resided at a permanent and principal home in the town and/or at a nursing home/assisted living facility.

The recipient will retain this honor and custody of the cane will remain the possession of the cane holder until his/her passing, at which time a responsible person will return the cane to the Ingram Senior Center. The cane shall not leave Salem. If the recipient moves outside of town, it is understood by the recipient that the cane will be stored at the Ingram Senior Center. The cane will not be awarded to any other person while the recipient is still living even though another resident may become eligible. Should the eldest citizen choose to not receive the title, the recognition will be made to the next eldest eligible citizen who wishes to hold the title.

Nominees must provide valid identification and proof of residency.

All nominations must be received by June 30, 2024.

Learn more about the program at the Boston Post Cane Information Center.