The Boothbay Region Lions Club celebrated its 65th anniversary on Wednesday, June 13 with a special tribute to founding member Harry Pinkham.

Pinkham received the President’s Award and a State House Sentiment presented by the club’s president Ken F-Fitch.

According to Pinkham, 90, the club got its start  in 1946 and began meeting in local restaurants.

“I am the only one left,” said Pinkham of the charter members. In 1953, when three neighborhood schools consolidated, the club bought West Harbor School for $1,600. The building has been the club’s meetinghouse ever since.

Pinkham said members threatened to present him with a $1,600 voucher for his part in securing the building.

He has been involved in community life since his school days when he became in charge of certifying weights and measures for town businesses.

After returning from military service in Korea in 1952, he worked as a carpenter and then as a U.S. Postal carrier, retiring in 1983. He worked for many years with the ambulance service and police department where he helped direct traffic. He was treasurer of the library for 26 years and served the town as an assessor for four years.

He never married or had children.

In other awards, Mary Tilton was named Lion of the Year.  “It was a surprise and fun,” said Tilton.

Alan Tilton was recognized as a 50-year member.

“I can’t think of anyone who has changed the spirit as much as Terry Heller,” said F-Fitch. Heller played the piano and sang during the meeting.