On the evening of July 18, 2023, at 6 p.m., The Rangeley Lakes Region Historical Society (R.L.R.H.S.) held its highly annual meeting at the iconic Lakeside Theater, nestled in the heart of Main St. in charming Rangeley. The purpose of the gathering was to deliberate on important society matters and initiatives, and to pay tribute to the eldest living resident of Rangeley while celebrating the cinematic centennial of the beloved classic film, Harold Lloyd’s timeless masterpiece, “Safety Last.”

Amidst a backdrop of rich historical significance, the meeting commenced with the esteemed Gary Priest, a longtime member and treasurer of R.L.R.H.S., presiding over the reverent Boston Post Cane ceremony. In a touching moment, Gary Priest presented Fran York with the esteemed Boston Post Cane, a time-honored tradition with roots dating back to 1909. Originating from The Boston Post newspaper, this ceremony was originally conceived as a marketing strategy to attract more readers. The canes, bestowed to the oldest residents of towns, soon became a cherished symbol of respect and honor. Fran York, a 98-year-young pillar of the community, became the 36th recipient of this prestigious accolade, reflecting her profound contributions to the region and unwavering support for the historical society. A seasoned newspaper veteran who had plied her trade in both Vermont and Maine, York’s commitment to preserving local history was an inspiration to all in attendance.

Following the poignant ceremony, the Board of Directors convened to deliberate on the future trajectory of R.L.R.H.S. This pivotal moment saw the passing of the baton from Eugenie Francine, who stepped down from her role as president, to the capable hands of Ken Astor, the newly appointed president. The board also welcomed Mark Gordon as the new vice president, succeeding John Boland, and Bill Lewis, a dedicated board member, taking over the role of treasurer from the departing Gary Priest. The unanimous approval of the Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws further solidified the society’s commitment to its mission.

Michelle Landry, the executive director, skillfully hosted the event and orchestrated the screening of the classic film, “Safety Last.” The Lakeside Theater, an iconic venue deeply entrenched in Rangeley’s history, resonated with laughter as the audience immersed themselves in the delightful antics of Harold Lloyd’s unforgettable character. Accompanied by a recorded musical score composed by the illustrious Carl Davis, the silent film captivated both young and old with its humor, excitement, and awe-inspiring stunts, including the iconic image of Harold Lloyd suspended precariously from a gigantic clock atop a towering building.

As the night unfolded, the R.L.R.H.S. created a warm and inviting ambiance, ensuring that all who attended had a fun, informative, and truly memorable experience. Attendees indulged in freshly popped popcorn, refreshing drinks, and explored a small corner showcasing unique gifts from the historical society’s charming gift shop, evoking a sense of nostalgia and appreciation for the region’s heritage.
Reflecting on the eventful evening, Michelle Landry expressed her heartfelt gratitude and appreciation for the unwavering support shown by R.L.R.H.S. members at the annual meeting. She remarked, “It’s very inspiring to see so many of our supporters gathered at our annual meetings. It’s a testament to the fact that there are so many of us that care deeply about preserving the history of our communities. Rangeley’s unique history contributes to its vibrancy and resiliency, and the Historical Society board and staff are very honored to preserve and share that history with locals and visitors. Honoring longtime resident Fran York with the presentation of the Boston Post Cane made it that much more special of an evening. Fran is an icon in our community, as is Gary Priest, the Historical Society Board member who presented the Cane to her. It was inspiring and heartwarming to see the two of them up on stage together.”

Beyond this annual gathering, the Rangeley Lakes Region Historical Society offers year-round opportunities for locals and visitors alike to delve deeper into the region’s storied past. The society maintains two museums – the Outdoor Heritage Museum located in the quaint Oquossoc Village and the Rangeley History Museum situated in the heart of Rangeley itself. These museums serve as a window into the bygone era, offering a glimpse into the lives, traditions, and triumphs of those who have shaped the region’s vibrant tapestry.

The Outdoor Heritage Museum is open 10-4, Tuesdays-Sundays in July and August. It is open 10-4, Wednesday-Sunday: May 24-31, June, September, and October 1-15. Saturday-Sunday the Rangeley Historical Museum is open in Rangeley from 11-4.