Continuing a tradition since the early 1900s of Massachusetts towns recognizing their oldest resident, Westwood centenarian Jasper "Harvey" Atkins has been honored by the Town of Westwood at the Council on Aging as the latest recipient of the Boston Post Cane on Friday, May 8, one day ahead of his 100th birthday.
Photo by William Selles. A large card signed by well-wishers was on display at Westwood's Council on Aging during the celebration of Harvey Atkins, the town's oldest resident.For 66 of those years, Mr. Atkins has lived Westwood, married to his late wife, Cynthia. Together, they raised four children. Harvey served in the 7th Infantry Division during World War II.
Photo by Connie Rizoli. Harvey Atkins sits back, enjoying remarks made in his honor as recipient of Westwood's Boston Post Cane.At one time, Mr. Atkins served on the Finance Commission and as the Town Radiation Officer. He also volunteered with the Westwood Fire Department and has been an active member of the Westwood Senior Center.
Photo by William Selles. The Boston Post Cane is on display at Westwood's Council on Aging.Westwood’s cane is preserved in a glass case at the Council on Aging. In 2009, Westwood’s Boston Post Cane tradition was revived in honor of the town's 100th anniversary.
Sports cartoonist Edward "Eddie" Germano, who passed away on February 27 of this year, was the town's previous Boston Post Cane recipient.
Mr. Atkins' name has been added to the town's plaque of recipients. Congratulations, Harvey, and Happy Birthday!
Photo by William Selles. The latest entry of honorees on Westwood's Boston Post Cane plaque at the Council on Aging is "Jasper 'Harvey' Atkins."Thanks to Laura Hayes, William Selles, Connie Rizoli, and the Town of Westwood for their contributions to this Westwood Minute article.
Patchy rain nearby, with a high of 71 and low of 45 degrees. Patchy rain nearby for the morning, sunny during the afternoon, clear overnight.
50° and Sunny
