The City of Presque Isle is launching a “Key to the City” program to celebrate “individuals or groups who have made extraordinary contributions to our city’s spirit, progress, and community,” City Manager Sonja Eyler said in a release Thursday.
The symbolic gesture, which stems from medieval tradition, is presented to convey that the recipient is welcome and esteemed in a city. It was first established in the U.S. in New York City in 1702.
“The key isn’t just a symbol of recognition, it’s a way to say thank you in a way that lasts,” Eyler wrote.
Several other Maine cities, including Portland, Lewiston, Auburn and Bangor have given out keys to the city over their histories — some to well-known figures. In 1960, Lewiston and Portland presented then-Sen. John F. Kennedy with the award during his whistle stop campaign tour. In 2014, Portland awarded former world heavyweight boxing champion Evander Holyfield with the honor.
The first recipient of a key, and how the nomination process will work, have yet to be announced.
