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List of Keys to the City in the United States facts for kids

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Great Seal of the United States (obverse)
The Great Seal of the United States is a special symbol of the USA.

A "Key to the City" is a really special honor that a city gives to people who have done amazing things. It's not a real key that unlocks anything, but it's a symbolic way for a city to say "thank you" or "we're proud of you." It's like being given the freedom to enter and leave the city as a trusted friend. This list shows some of the famous and important people who have received this honor in cities across the United States.

Keys to the City Across the USA

Alabama Honors

Alabaster City Awards

  • October 12, 2015: Bobby Joe Seales, a local historian, was honored.
  • October 15, 2018: Mayo Taylor, the first African-American city council member, received a key.

Bay Minette Celebrations

  • 1984: Lyn Glenn, daughter of astronaut and politician John Glenn, was recognized.
  • December 21, 2018: Kirk Jay, a singer from The Voice, received a key.

Birmingham's Special Guests

  • October 3, 1980: Mercer Ellington, a musician and son of the famous Duke Ellington, was honored.

Boaz Recognitions

  • June 14, 2019: Richard Glazier, a sawmill owner, received a key.

Brewton's Musical Tributes

  • November 2021: William Lee Golden and The Goldens, country musicians, were honored.

Cullman's Community Heroes

  • November 10, 2017: Roy Drinkard, a developer and Marine, received a key.

Gadsden's Astronaut Honor

  • 1984: John Glenn, the famous astronaut and politician, was given a key.

Hoover's Diverse Honorees

  • July 13, 2016: Paul Reinhardt, commander of the USS Alabama submarine, was honored.
  • February 18, 2019: Ajah Robinson, Anthonia Anwah, and Aiyana Hines received keys.
  • January 21, 2020: Foster Dudley, a fourth-grade student, was recognized.

Huntsville's Notable Figures

  • July 12, 2013: Jase Robertson, a star from the reality TV show Duck Dynasty, received a key.
  • June 28, 2015: Microwave Dave, a musician and music educator, was honored.
  • September 28, 2016: Dennis L. Via, a US Army General, received a key.

Mobile's Sports and Entertainment Stars

  • February 5, 2013: Captain Munnerlyn, an NFL player, was honored.
  • Spring 2013: A. J. McCarron and C.J. Mosley, football players, received keys.
  • July 12, 2016: Jaquiski Tartt, an NFL player, was recognized.
  • September 20, 2017: Nicolas Cage, a well-known actor, received a key.
  • November 14, 2022: Daniel K. Wims and Thomas Hudson, university presidents, were honored.
  • February 18, 2023: Latisha D. Scott, an actor, received a key.

Mountain Brook's Local Legends

  • September 23, 2019: Kevin Alexander, a local dentist, was honored.
  • January 18, 2022: Rodney Davis, a local chef, received a key.

Orange Beach's Music Icon

  • October 5, 2023: Jason Aldean, a country musician, was honored.

Phenix City's Special Guest

  • 1984: Lyn Glenn, daughter of astronaut and politician John Glenn, was recognized.

Scottsboro's Community Leaders

  • 1984: John Glenn, the astronaut and politician, received a key.
  • October 24, 2022: Gary Stewart, a town council member, was honored.

Selma's Accounting Ace

  • May 5, 2023: Daryl D. Thomas, an accountant, received a key.

Tallassee's Coaching Honor

  • January 22, 2018: Derrick Ansley, a football coach, was honored.

Troy's Football Hero

  • April 19, 2016: DeMarcus Ware, an NFL player, received a key.

Alaska Honors

Homer's Pageant Queen

  • 2012: Vicki Sarber, a pageant contestant and Mrs. America 2012, was honored.

Kodiak's Rapper Recognition

  • July 30, 2012: Pitbull, the rapper, received a key.

Palmer's Air Guard Heroes

  • May 7, 2021: Captain Matt Seakup, Captain Chris Brunner, and Sergeant Andy Reynolds, members of the Alaska Air National Guard, were honored.

Wasilla's Illusionist Award

  • September 22, 2011: Landon Swank, an illusionist, received a key.

California Honors

Anaheim's Baseball Legend

  • February 1940: Connie Mack, a baseball catcher, manager, and team owner, was honored.

Antioch's Brave Citizen

  • December 12, 2022: Bianca Palomera, a restaurant worker who defended a disabled customer, received a key.

Bakersfield's Sports and Food Stars

  • October 29, 1988: Pelé, the legendary soccer player, was honored.
  • July 30, 2012: John and Joe Lanni, restaurateurs, received keys.

Beverly Hills' Famous Faces

  • September 2, 2010: The Kardashian–Jenner family and radio host Larry King received keys to Beverly Hills.
  • October 18, 2022: Charles Aronberg, a former mayor and physician, was honored.

Blythe's Boxing Champion

  • April 3, 2019: Andrew Cancio, a boxer, received a key.

Burbank's Community Contributors

  • August 22, 2017: Adam Schiff, a state representative, was honored.
  • May 2021: Mickey DePalo, a local community worker, received a key.

Clearlake's Police Chief

  • December 21, 2022: Andrew White, a retired local police chief, was honored.

Coachella's Music Stars

  • April 11, 2019: Los Tucanes de Tijuana, a Mexican band, received a key.
  • April 22, 2023: Becky G, a singer and actress, was honored.

Coalinga's Outgoing Mayor

  • December 6, 2018: Nathan Vosburg, the outgoing mayor of Coalinga, received a key.

Compton's Rap Icons

  • 2014: Dr. Dre, a rapper and record producer, was honored.
  • February 13, 2016: Kendrick Lamar, a rapper and songwriter, received a key.

Corona's Tallest Cat

  • March 12, 2010: Scarlett's Magic, a Savannah cat recognized as the World's Tallest Cat, received a key.

Coronado's Philanthropist

  • July 1, 2020: Donna Salof, a community worker and philanthropist, was honored.

Cypress's Golf and Education Heroes

  • 1994: Tiger Woods, the famous golfer, received a key.
  • January 20, 2016: Dan Ta, a youth money management educator, was honored.

Daly City's Comedian

  • July 22, 2022: Jo Koy, a comedian, received a key.

Danville's Flight Hero

Desert Hot Springs' Latin Musician

  • June 20, 2023: DannyLux, a Latin musician, received a key.

Diamond Bar's Soccer Star

  • January 24, 2016: Alex Morgan, a soccer player, was honored.

Elk Grove's Many Honorees

  • June 18, 2014: Kyle Larson, a race car driver, received a key.
  • December 10, 2014: Jim Cooper, a city council member, was honored.
  • November 6, 2015: Lance Briggs, a football player, received a key.
  • May 28, 2016: Josephine Finley Prince, a local centenarian (someone 100 years or older), was honored.
  • August 27, 2016: Elizabeth Pinkerton, an educator and historian, received a key.
  • May 14, 2017: Ann Pinto, a local centenarian, was honored.
  • May 24, 2017: Leo Fassler, a community member, received a key.
  • August 26, 2017: Donald Ralph, an Air Force commander, was honored.
  • August 26, 2017: Karissa Trinchera, a Special Olympics swimmer, received a key.
  • August 26, 2017: Mathilde Mukantabana, the Rwandan ambassador, was honored.
  • August 26, 2017: Roy Herburger, a news reporter, received a key.
  • December 26, 2017: Bertha Weber Kraus, a local centenarian, was honored.
  • March 8, 2018: Joseph Sieber, a local centenarian, received a key.
  • May 16, 2018: Samuel Rinelli, a local centenarian, was honored.
  • May 17, 2018: Jamie Whitmore, a paracyclist, received a key.
  • June 2, 2018: Emma Virginia Fife, a local centenarian, was honored.
  • July 15, 2018: Chalmers Gage, a local centenarian, received a key.
  • December 28, 2018: Lydia Christina Wacker, a local centenarian, was honored.
  • February 27, 2019: Joey Hand, a racing driver, received a key.
  • July 29, 2019: Maureen Gertrude Gabriel, a local centenarian, was honored.
  • October 3, 2022: Candido Montalbano, a local centenarian, received a key.

Indio's Community Pillars

  • 2011: Bob Ladiin, an honorary mayor, was honored.
  • 2013: Alexander Haagan III, owner of the Empire Polo Club, received a key.
  • 2008 & 2015: The Order of the Eastern Star, a community group, was honored.

Inglewood's Entertainment Icons

  • February 12, 2022: Issa Rae, an actress and writer, received a key.
  • February 16, 2022: Stan Kroenke, a businessman and sports team owner, was honored.
  • June 18, 2023: D Smoke, a rapper, received a key.
  • October 17, 2023: Becky G, a singer, was honored.

Lancaster's Top Teacher

  • April 30, 2015: Matt Anderson, Gateway Teacher of the Year, received a key.

La Puente's Presidential Visit

Long Beach's Royal and Community Guests

  • February 27, 1983: HM Queen Elizabeth II, the Queen of the United Kingdom, received a key.
  • March 2018: Carmen Perez, a community worker, was honored.
  • December 13, 2022: Naomi Rainey-Pierson and Rich Archbold, community leaders, received keys.

Los Angeles's Diverse Honorees

  • October 1984: Sally Ride, the astronaut, was honored.
  • 2006: Twenty-seven Victoria's Secret Angels were presented with a key to Hollywood.
  • August 7, 2009: Stars and producers of the film (500) Days of Summer received a key to Los Angeles.
  • May 11, 2013: Mirza Masroor Ahmad, a religious leader, was honored.
  • September 23, 2016: Vin Scully, a baseball announcer, received a key.
  • May 23, 2021: Musician Lady Gaga was awarded a key, and May 23 was declared "Born This Way Day."
  • October 1, 2022: Jaime Jarrín, a baseball announcer, received a key.

Oakland's Music and Community Leaders

Richmond's Music Legend

  • c. 1984-96: James Brown, the musician, received a key.

Ridgecrest's Community Worker

  • July 22, 2022: Doug Lueck, a community worker, was honored.

Sacramento's Heroes and Artists

  • September 11, 2015: Spencer Stone, Alek Skarlatos and Anthony Sadler, for stopping a train attack, received keys.
  • 2017: Chance the Rapper, a rapper, was honored.
  • June 2023: Arik Armstead, an NFL player, received a key.

San Bernardino's Football Star

  • January 20, 2024: Jayden Daniels, a football player and Heisman Trophy winner, was honored.

San Diego's Music and Sports Tributes

  • August 28, 1965: The rock band The Beatles received a key from teenage girls.
  • July 2, 2021: Andra Day, a singer and actress, was honored.
  • May 23, 2023: The Lincoln Hornets, a high school football team, received a key.

San Francisco's Innovators and Champions

  • 1916: Sam Born, who invented a machine for lollipops, received a key.
  • August 9, 1941: Hollywood actor Edward Arnold was honored.
  • 1960: Four Soviet sailors received a key.
  • 1962: Sailor Kenichi Horie was honored.
  • October 30, 1965: Uguccione Ranieri di Sorbello, an Italian writer, received a key.
  • December 12, 1966: Avraham Harman, the Israeli Ambassador, was honored.
  • Late 1970s: Sylvester, a singer, received a key.
  • February 5, 1986: Gbenga Sonuga, a director for Arts and Culture in Lagos, was honored.
  • 1992: Gladys Hansen, a city archivist, received a key.
  • November 3, 2010: The San Francisco Giants received a key for winning the 2010 World Series.
  • 2011: Tony Bennett, the singer, was honored.
  • June 26, 2012: Matt Cain, a Giants pitcher, received a key for his perfect game.
  • September 29, 2012: Aung San Suu Kyi, a Myanmar opposition leader, was honored.
  • October 31, 2012: The San Francisco Giants received a key for winning the 2012 World Series.
  • May 21, 2013: Stephen Curry, a basketball player, was honored.
  • November 15, 2013: Batkid, a child cancer patient, received a key as part of a Make-A-Wish event.
  • February 12, 2014: Gavin Newsom, a state governor, was honored.
  • October 31, 2014: The San Francisco Giants received a key for winning the 2014 World Series.
  • October 14, 2015: The Golden State Warriors received a key for winning the 2015 NBA Championship.
  • November 2, 2017: Leo Varadkar, the head of government of Ireland, was honored.

Santa Cruz's Governor's Key

  • February 12, 2014: Gavin Newsom, a state governor, received a key.

Seaside's Activist Award

  • February 16, 2022: Helen Rucker, a community activist, was honored.

Stockton's Unique Honors

  • May 22, 2010: Dallas Braden, a baseball pitcher who threw a perfect game, received a key.
  • November 16, 2015: God was given the key to the city by Mayor Anthony Silva.
  • December 3, 2022: Nate Diaz, a mixed martial artist, was honored.
  • May 18, 2023: Stan and Denise Smart received keys.

Vallejo's Rapper Recognition

  • October 21, 2023: E-40, a rapper, was honored.

Watts' Music Star

  • May 24, 2019: Jay Rock, a rapper and Watts native, received a key.

West Covina's TV Show Tribute

  • November 17, 2015: The cast and crew of the TV series Crazy Ex-Girlfriend received a key to West Covina.

Connecticut Honors

Ansonia's Sports Stars

  • December 16, 2013: Arkeel Newsome and Tom Brockett, a high school football player and coach, were honored.
  • May 28, 2017: Tierney Lawlor, a basketball player, received a key.
  • October 19, 2022: Arthur Solis, a local soccer coach, was honored.

Bridgeport's Many Talents

  • November 2011: Michael Jai White, an actor, received a key.
  • February 2016: Marc Anthony, a singer and actor, was honored.
  • 2018 & 2023: Kevin Hart, a comedian and actor, received keys.
  • October 2018: Sheena Graham, state Teacher of the Year, was honored.
  • February 2019: Andre Gray, an inventor, received a key.
  • November 2020: 50 Cent, a rapper and actor, was honored.
  • 2021: REO Speedwagon, a rock band, received a key.
  • 2021: Styx, a rock band, was honored.
  • March 2021: Tenisi Davis, an actor and activist, received a key.
  • September 2, 2021: The Skinny Boys, a hip-hop group, were honored.
  • 2022: Stevie Nicks, a singer, received a key.
  • 2022: Dave Matthews, a musician, was honored.
  • November 17, 2022: Sofia Depassier, Miss Universo Chile 2022, received a key.
  • Loretta Long, an actress, was honored.
  • United States Marine Band, the band of the US Marine Corps, received a key.

Danbury's Music and Martial Arts

  • June 2014: Nancy Sudik, director of the Danbury Music Center, was honored.
  • November 16, 2021: Glover Teixeira, a mixed martial artist, received a key.

Hartford's Artistic Achievements

  • May 2, 2011: Michael Wilson, a theatrical director, was honored.
  • August 10, 2013: Christopher Martin, a Jamaican singer, received a key.
  • February 15, 2014: John Leguizamo, a comedian and actor, was honored.
  • June 10, 2014: Darko Tresnjak, an artistic director and Tony Award winner, received a key.

Middletown's Business Leader

  • May 29, 2009: Joseph W. Waz, Jr., a business executive, was honored.

Milford's NBA Player

New Britain's Polish Ambassador

  • August 3, 2013: Ryszard Schnepf, the Polish ambassador to the U.S., was honored.

New Haven's Community Champions

  • December 30, 2019: Local police chief Anthony Duff, WNBA player Bria Holmes, teacher Malcolm Welfare, community worker Clarence Boyd, journalist Veronica Douglas-Givan, entertainment chef Gordon Ramsay, political activist George Mention, columnist James Walker, realtor Roberta Hoskie, guidance supervisor Cynthia Beaver, and doctor Tamiko Jackson McArthur received keys.

North Haven's Ukrainian Refugees

  • October 28, 2022: Kostyantyn and Olga Yermakov, Ukrainian refugees, were honored.

Delaware Honors

Wilmington's Military Hero

  • May 4, 1945: James Phillip Connor, a U.S. Army sergeant, was honored.
  • April 3, 2009: The Fon people of Bamunka were recognized.

District of Columbia Honors

Washington, D.C.'s Notable Figures

Florida Honors

Bradenton's Honored Guest

  • Philip Givens received a key.

Cape Coral's Military Heroine

  • December 13, 2015: Jessica Lynch, a former Prisoner of War, was honored.

Clearwater's Community Leaders

  • Philip Givens received a key.
  • George Hill received a key.
  • January 17, 2012: Frank Crum was honored.
  • October 30, 2013: Robert Engelman, a film producer, received a key.

Coral Gables' Cuban Community Leader

  • August 31, 2018: Jesús Permuy, an architect and Cuban community leader, was honored.

Doral's Venezuelan Leader

  • September 15, 2013: Henrique Capriles Radonski, a Venezuelan opposition leader, received a key.

Dunedin's Country Music Star

  • July 18, 2013: Lari White, a country music artist, was honored.

Fort Lauderdale's Soccer Superstar

  • August 30, 2023: Lionel Messi, the soccer player, received a key.

Fort Myers' Football Star

  • July 11, 2014: Sammy Watkins, an American football wide receiver, was honored.

Gainesville's Musician

Key West's Presidential and Entertainment Guests

  • December 20, 1955: Ethel Waters, a singer and actress, was honored.
  • December 28, 1955: Dwight D. Eisenhower, the 34th President of the United States, received a key.
  • May 22, 1956: Estes Kefauver, a U.S. Senator, was honored.
  • February 23, 1957: Harry S. Truman, the 33rd President of the United States, received a key.
  • July 14, 2004: Rosie O'Donnell, a comedian and activist, was honored.

Lakeland's Football Coach

  • February 11, 1976: John McKay, a football coach, received a key.

Miami's Global Stars

  • 1976: Deborah Manika, the 1st 1 Millionth Passenger through the Port of Miami, received a key.
  • 1981: The musical group The Jacksons received keys.
  • 2004: Shaquille O'Neal, a basketball player, received keys.
  • August 9, 2004: Lil' Kim, a rap superstar, was honored.
  • December 6, 2006: Shakira, a superstar singer, received a key.
  • August 19, 2009: Armando Perez (Pitbull), a rap artist, received a key.
  • April 13, 2013: Adam Lambert, a pop singer, was honored.
  • July 8, 2013: María Corina Machado, a Venezuelan opposition leader, received a key.
  • August 20, 2013: José Sulaimán, president of the World Boxing Council, was honored.
  • September 15, 2013: Henrique Capriles Radonski, a Venezuelan opposition leader, received a key.
  • October 29, 2018: Trevor Noah, a comedian, received a key.
  • August 27, 2019: Natalie Martinez received a key.
  • November 15, 2019: Jonathan Davis received a key.
  • January 12, 2020: Will Smith and Martin Lawrence, actors, received keys.
  • September 28, 2021: Conor McGregor, a fighter, received a key.
  • October 6, 2021: Teresa Murphy received a key.
  • October 6, 2021: Rudy Diaz, a Teacher of the Year, received a key.
  • May 6, 2023: The Nelk boys (Kyle, Steiny and Bradley Martyn) received keys.

North Miami's Socialites and Pastors

  • November 19, 2012: Kim and Kourtney Kardashian, socialites, received keys.
  • June 11, 2013: Gregory Toussaint, a Pastor, was honored.

Ocala's Actors and Activists

  • March 2, 2007: John Travolta, an American Actor, received a key.
  • March 2, 2007: Kelly Preston, an American Actress, was honored.
  • 2017: A Day to Remember, a band, received a key.
  • September 25, 2020: Juanita Perry Cunningham, a city resident and activist, was honored.

Orlando's Music and Sports Triumphs

  • October 8, 1998: Backstreet Boys received a key.
  • January 8, 2018: The 2017 UCF Knights football team was honored.
  • September 22, 2023: Wes Edens, Brightline founder, received a key.

Pensacola's Baseball Champion

  • November 15, 2016: Addison Russell, a professional baseball player, was honored.

Sarasota's Community and Music Icons

  • April 25, 2013: Paul Thorpe, a Sarasota citizen, was honored.
  • September 11, 2013: Diana Ross, a singer and actress, received a key.

St. Petersburg's Honored Guest

  • 1972: Philip Givens received a key.

Tallahassee's Heroes and DJs

  • November 14, 2018: Joshua Quick, for confronting a shooter, received a key.
  • January 9, 2023: DJ DEMP, for outstanding service, was honored.

Tampa's Super Bowl and Music Stars

  • January 28, 2003: Jon Gruden, a football coach, received a key after a Super Bowl victory.
  • April 10, 2023: Taylor Swift, a singer-songwriter, received a key and was named Honorary Mayor.

Georgia Honors

Franklin Springs' Governor's Visit

  • 2007: Sonny Perdue, the Governor of Georgia, received a key after visiting the city.

Milton's Founding Fathers

  • 2007: The original Governor's Commission for the City of Milton was awarded a key for their work in creating the city.

Dawsonville's NASCAR Champion

  • November 9, 2020: Chase Elliott, a NASCAR Cup Series Champion, received a key.

Taylorsville's Music Superstar

  • April 28, 2023: Taylor Swift, a singer-songwriter, received a key.

Hawaii Honors

Honolulu's Golf Star

  • December 12, 2014: Michelle Wie, an American Golfer, was honored.

Illinois Honors

Chicago's Global and Local Figures

  • December 30, 1871: Grand Duke Alexei Alexandrovich of Russia received the "Freedom of the City."
  • June 26, 1933: Residents of the Midget Village at the World's Fair received a key.
  • August 17, 1970: Edward Stein, dressed as Neptune, received a key.
  • May 1985: Jean McFadden, a council leader, received a key.
  • April 21, 1988: Michael Jackson, the singer, was honored.
  • March 20, 1990: Audrey Hepburn, the actress, received a key.
  • October 12, 1990: Sophia Loren, the actress, was honored.
  • 1996: Najwa Karam, a Lebanese singer, received a key.

North Chicago's Basketball Champion

  • July 11, 2011: Shawn Marion, a basketball player, received a key after a championship victory.

Springfield's Fictional Character

  • March 11, 2015: Cobra Commander from G.I. Joe received a key.

Bensenville's Diplomatic Guests

  • June 22, 2018: Cónsul General Billy Adolfo José Muñoz Miranda and Vice Cónsul Brenda Paz de Ghassemi from Guatemala received keys.

Indiana Honors

Gary's Music Icon

Indianapolis's Football Star

  • July 17, 2015: Reggie Wayne, a football player, received a key.

Salem's Advocate

  • November 11, 1999: Gary Gambino, a disability advocate, received a key.

South Bend's Comedian

Evansville's Music Star

  • April 23, 2009: Taylor Swift, a singer-songwriter, received a key.

Terre Haute's Talent Show Winner

Iowa Honors

Des Moines' Author

  • October 21, 2006: Bill Bryson, an author, received a key.

Kansas Honors

Lyons' Philanthropist

  • April 2022: Marshall Christmann, for his community contributions, received a key.

Kentucky Honors

Bowling Green's Singer

Louisville's Diverse Honorees

  • 1975: Helen Humes, a musician, received a key.
  • 1990s: Frederick Cease, a soldier, was honored.
  • July 2000: Nancy Johnson Barker, a singer, received a key.
  • 2002: Ivor Chodkowski, a farmer, was honored.
  • September 24, 2002: Montgomery Gentry, musicians, received a key.
  • January 2010: Sam Leist, a lawyer, was honored.
  • March 12, 2016: Bryson Tiller, a singer, received a key and "Bryson Tiller Day" was declared.
  • April 5, 2016: Awadeya Mahmoud, a human rights worker, received a key.
  • June 29, 2016: John Rabun, a social worker, was honored.
  • January 10, 2017: Bob Beatty, a football coach, received a key.

Williamsburg's Survivor Winner

  • January 16, 2019: Nick Wilson, a public defender and Survivor winner, was honored.

Louisiana Honors

New Orleans' Rebuilders and Stars

  • November 21, 2006: Kentucky-New Orleans Architecture Studio was honored for restoration work.
  • April 26, 2007: The Harris County Hospital District was honored for helping Hurricane Katrina evacuees.
  • June 2008: Usher, an R&B singer, received a key for helping rebuild New Orleans.
  • September 25, 2011: Steve Gleason, a football player, received a key for a blocked punt after Hurricane Katrina.
  • September 17, 2018: Beyoncé and Jay-Z received keys for their philanthropy.
  • May 20, 2019: Jesseca Dupart was honored for her philanthropy and business.

Maine Honors

Portland's Community Supporters

  • March 2003: Dr Gerry McKenna, President of the University of Ulster, was honored.
  • July 13, 2008: moe., a band, received a key for organizing a fundraising concert.
  • June 13, 2014: Evander Holyfield, an American Boxer, was honored.
  • November 4, 2023: Twisted Roots, a rock band, received a key.

Maryland Honors

Baltimore's Olympic and Sports Stars

  • September 10, 2012: Keys were awarded to eight Olympic athletes, including swimmers Michael Phelps and Katie Ledecky.
  • July 24, 2019: Gervonta Davis, a boxer, received a key.
  • July 19, 2023: Angel Reese, a college basketball player, was honored.

Pocomoke City's Football Hall of Famer

  • Ray Lewis, an NFL Hall of Famer, received a key.

Massachusetts Honors

Boston's Dedicated Employee

  • August 8, 2023: Rose Conley, an employee, received a key for her dedication.

Brockton's Boxing Champion

  • September 29, 1980: Marvin Hagler, a boxer, received a key after becoming World Middleweight Champion.

Dedham's TV Star

  • July 1961: Connie Hines, an actress from Mister Ed, received a key.

Holyoke's Community and Political Figures

  • July 21, 1909: Joseph Lewis Wyckoff received a key for expanding the city's boundaries.
  • April 27, 2018: Carmen Yulín Cruz received a key for her work helping Puerto Ricans.

Worcester's Music Contributor

  • July 8, 2017: Shatta Wale, a musician, received a key for his contributions to the arts.

Michigan Honors

Albion's Columnist

  • 1960s: Ann Landers, a famous columnist, received a key.

Detroit's Music Legends and Community Heroes

  • October 13, 1963: Jerry Gresham, at 16, was the youngest to receive a key.
  • September 26, 1974: Stevie Wonder, the renowned Motown artist, was honored.
  • August 1975: Horace Jackson, a filmmaker, received a key.
  • January 31, 2006: Jerome Bettis, a Detroit native and football player, received a key.
  • January 2, 2007: Steve Yzerman, a hockey player, received a key after his retirement.
  • January 27, 2010: Elmo received a key during a visit to Children's Hospital.
  • October 22, 2014: Berry Gordy, for his work with Motown, received a key.
  • April 1, 2017: Big Sean, a rapper, received a key for his foundation.
  • June 15, 2018: Jackson 5 members received keys.
  • February 29, 2020: Members of the Detroit Youth Choir received keys.
  • February 26, 2023: DJ Leo Alton received a key for his charitable work.

Flint's Community Leaders

  • 1989: Lois M. Craig received a key.
  • June 10, 2007: LaKisha Jones, an American Idol finalist, received a key.

Jackson's Philanthropists

  • 2023: Pastor James Hines and Al Glick, a businessman, received keys.

Kalamazoo's Special Olympics and City Leaders

  • December 17, 2018: Julian Ravi Cosmin Borst, a Special Olympics medalist, received a key.
  • November 11, 2019: Bobby Hopewell and Don Cooney, city commission members, received keys.

Sault Sainte Marie's Rock Band

Traverse City's TV Personality

  • 2005: Carter Oosterhouse, a Traverse City native, received a key.

Missouri Honors

Jefferson City's Rock Band

  • July 16, 2022: Buckcherry, a rock band, was honored.

Hannibal's Muralist

  • November 7, 2023: Ray Harvey, a muralist, received a key for his work in Hannibal.

Nevada Honors

Fernley's Olympic Gymnast

  • August 2012: Jacob Dalton, an American Olympic Gymnast, was honored.

Las Vegas's Entertainment and Community Stars

  • 1999: Fairuz, a Lebanese recording artist, received a key.
  • October 25, 2003: Michael Jackson, the artist, received keys.
  • 2012: Elise Diker, a business person, received a key.
  • 2012: Nancy Ajram, a Lebanese recording artist, received a key.
  • 2012: Black Uhuru (Ducky Simpson), a reggae group, was honored.
  • 2014: An HIV/AIDS Activist and Trevor Project Supervisor received a key to the State of Nevada and Las Vegas.
  • 2014: Britney Spears, an American singer, was honored.
  • 2015: Bryce Harper and Kris Bryant, baseball players, received keys.
  • 2016: DJ Khaled, a professional DJ, received keys.
  • 2016: Jonathan and Drew Scott of Property Brothers received keys for their charity work.
  • 2017: Anthony C. Flores and Isaiah J. LaBelle, Ultralight Team members, received keys.
  • 2018: Dana White, UFC president, received keys.
  • April 30, 2019: Brendon Urie, Panic! at the Disco vocalist, received a key.
  • September 6, 2019: Imagine Dragons, a pop rock band, received a key for their music and charity work.
  • May 2, 2019: James Holzhauer, for his success on Jeopardy! and donations, received a key.
  • April 16, 2022: Tom Ingram, a festival promoter, received a key.
  • June 8, 2022: Katy Perry, a singer, was awarded keys for her residency.
  • July 5, 2022: Australia's Thunder from Down Under received keys for their residency.
  • October 17, 2023: Usher, a musician, was honored.
  • March 2, 2024: U2, the band, received a key prior to their final show.

New Jersey Honors

Atlantic City's Music and Pageant Stars

  • c. 1927-1930: Arthur A. Quinn, a state senator, received a key.
  • June 21, 2013: Mallory Hagan, Miss America 2013 winner, was honored.
  • July 20, 2019: Ronny Colson and Luke Witherspoon III, music producers, received keys.

Camden County's Pop Star

Englewood's Football Player

  • 2019: Juwann Winfree, an American football player, was honored.

Hoboken's Music Stars

  • October 30, 1947: Frank Sinatra, an American Singer, was honored.
  • July 6, 1998: Aaron Rosa, a drummer, received a key.

Jersey City's Playwright and Coach

  • March 17, 1961: Brendan Behan, an Irish playwright, received keys.
  • April 27, 2023: Dan Hurley, a basketball coach, was honored.

Newark's Martial Artist

  • 2016: Professor Don Jacob, a Martial Artist, received a key.

Paterson's Football and Music Stars

  • April 15, 2012: Victor Cruz (American football), a football player, received a key for his role in a Super Bowl victory.
  • August 28, 2015: Fetty Wap, a rapper, received a key.
  • June 1, 2018: Cory Booker, a US Senator, received a key.
  • May 25, 2022: Felisa Van Liew, a school principal, received a key.

New York Honors

Buffalo's Music and Sports Figures

  • November 6, 1981: Triumph, a band, received a key.
  • May 19, 2009: Terrell Owens, a football player, received a key.
  • November 6, 2014: Terry Pegula, a sports team owner, received a key.

New York City's Historical and Modern Heroes

Keys to New York City 1991
Keys to New York City 1991
  • 1930-1931: Albert Einstein, the scientist, received keys.
  • 1969: Bernadette Devlin, a civil rights activist, received honorary keys.
  • 1972: The musical group The Jackson 5 received keys.
  • June 10, 1991: Richard Cheney, Colin Powell, Norman Schwarzkopf received keys after a parade.
  • February 5, 2008: The New York Giants received keys for their Super Bowl victory.
  • February 9, 2009: Chesley B. Sullenberger III received a key for safely landing a plane in the Hudson River.
  • May 8, 2009: Captain Richard Phillips and William Rios received keys for their heroism.
  • November 6, 2009: The New York Yankees received keys for their World Series victory.
  • October 14, 2010: Ralph Lauren, for his contributions, received a key.
  • November 18, 2011: Regis Philbin, a TV host, received a key.
  • February 7, 2012: The New York Giants received keys for their Super Bowl victory.
  • July 10, 2015: The United States Women's National Soccer Team received keys for their World Cup victory.
  • January 9, 2016: Ray Pfeifer, an FDNY Firefighter, received a key for his work helping 9/11 first responders.
  • March 2, 2016: Foxy Brown, a rapper, was honored.
  • June 11, 2017: Fabolous, a rapper, and Jean-Michel Basquiat, an artist, received keys.
  • June 26, 2017: Nicki Minaj, a rapper, was honored.
  • December 27, 2021: Patti Smith, a musician and author, received a key.
  • August 8, 2022: LL Cool J, a rapper, was honored.
  • April 14, 2023: Lord Andrew Lloyd Webber, a composer, received a key for his contributions to Broadway.
  • June 8, 2023: Robert De Niro, an actor, received a key.
  • July 16, 2023: Valerie Simpson, a musician, was honored.
  • September 15, 2023: Sean "Diddy" Combs, a musician and businessman, received a key.

Oyster Bay's Musician

  • October 19, 2023: Billy Joel, a musician from Oyster Bay, was honored.

Rochester's Sports and Community Leaders

  • June 25, 1968: Borussia Dortmund, a German football team, was honored.
  • June 17, 1973: Pelé, the Brazilian footballer, received a key.
  • June 3, 2013: The Rochester Knighthawks, a lacrosse team, received a key.
  • April 23, 2016: Beverly Bond, a producer and DJ, received a key for her work empowering young Black girls.
  • March 19, 2019: John P. Schreiber, a Fire Chief, received a key for his dedicated service.

Binghamton's Heroes

  • August 12, 2007: Dusan Vemic, a tennis player, received a key.
  • September 28, 2016: Albert Fiori, Doug Kumpon, Ed Staff, Fred Teribury, and Chris White received keys for saving a life.
  • November 22, 2021: John Hughes, Jr, owner of the Binghamton Rumble Ponies, received a key for keeping the team in the city.

North Carolina Honors

Boone's Special Olympics and Motor Maids

  • January 21, 1980: Special Olympics North Carolina was honored.
  • July 5, 1983: The Motor Maids received a key.

Charlotte's Basketball Star

Hickory's Chancellor

  • November 19, 2021: Sheri Everts, Chancellor of Appalachian State University, was honored.

High Point's Community Pillars

  • Billy Quick, a Special Olympics athlete, received a key.
  • October 13, 2017: Kathy Ireland, a model and entrepreneur, received a key.
  • December 3, 2023: Danny and Dolly Jennings, local business owners, received a key.
  • June 16, 2024: Fantasia Barrino, a singer, was honored.

Huntersville's Young Heroes

  • March 15, 2021: Two teenagers, Owen and Walker, received keys for alerting authorities to an oil spill.

Wilmington's Author

Ohio Honors

Akron's Artist

Columbus's Music Group

  • May 26, 2005: Fatty Koo, a music group, received a key.

Toledo's Historical and Musical Keys

  • 1896: Guy G. Major Mayor of Toledo received an all-brass key.
  • 1962: Don Constantino de la Cruz-Sanchez received a glass key.
  • May 13, 2010: Crystal Bowersox, a singer-songwriter, received a key.
  • August 28, 2022: Larry Fuller, a jazz pianist, received a glass key.

Cincinnati's Diverse Honorees

  • 1974: Pramukh Swami Maharaj, a spiritual head, was honored.
  • 1987: Todd Hobbs, Mark Hobbs, Kevin Hodge, Teddy Hodge, Scott Castellenas, and Chris Hudson, for saving children from a fire, received keys.
  • 1988: Nam June Paik, a sculptor, was honored.
  • 2015: Cate Blanchett, an Australian Actress, received a key.
  • 2015: Rooney Mara, an American Actress, was honored.
  • 2015: Christine Vachon, an American Film Producer, received a key.
  • 2015: Sir Elton John, a British Singer, was honored.
  • 2015: Lionel Richie, an American Singer, received a key.
  • 2015: Jennifer Hudson, an American Actress and Singer, was honored.
  • 2015: Carl Hilding Severinsen, an American Musician, received a key.
  • 2015: Drew Lachey, an American Singer, was honored.
  • 2015: Nick Lachey, an American Singer, received a key.
  • 2016: Okyeame Kwame, a Ghanaian Musician, was honored.
  • 2018: Jack White, an American Musician, received a key.
  • 2019: Rose Lavelle, an American Soccer Player, was honored.
  • 2023: Richard (Dick) Rosenthal, an American Philanthropist, received a key.
  • 2024: John F. Barrett, a business leader, was honored.

Cleveland's Music and Sports Stars

  • 1968: B.B. King, an American blues singer, was honored.
  • 1969: Carl B. Stokes, an American Politician and Civil Rights Leader, received a key.
  • Pelé, the Brazilian soccer player, was honored.
  • 1974: Pramukh Swami Maharaj, a spiritual head, received a key.
  • June 16, 2011: The stars of the TV series Hot in Cleveland received keys.
  • November 5, 2011: Aretha Franklin, an American singer, was honored.
  • July 17, 2015: Mickey Bey, a boxing champion, received a key.

Dayton's Civil Rights and Health Leaders

  • 2023: Dr. Derrick L. Foward, an American Civil Rights Activist, received a key.
DLF Receives Key to the City 5.3.23
Dayton Mayor Jeffery J. Mims, Jr. Presents Dayton NAACP President Dr Derrick L. Foward With a Key to the City on May 3, 2023
  • 2023: Edwin C. Moses, an Olympian, was honored.
Edwin C. Moses Receives Key to the City Original - 4.29.23
Dayton Mayor Jeffery J. Mims, Jr. Presents Olympian Edwin C. Moses a Key to the City of Dayton
  • 2023: Dr. Jill Biden, First Lady of the United States, was honored.
  • 2021: Jeff Cooper, Michael Dohn, and Terra Williams, public health officials, received keys.
  • 2015: David McCullough, an author, was honored.
  • 1964: Martin Luther King, Jr., an American Civil Rights Activist, received a key.

Warren's Musician

  • August 2, 2009: Dave Grohl, an American Musician, was honored.

Oklahoma Honors

Oklahoma City's Basketball and Acting Stars

  • June 13, 2022: Russell Westbrook, an American basketball player, received a key.
  • May 14, 2019: Kristin Chenoweth, an American actress and singer, was honored.

Tulsa's Community Contributors

  • March 18, 2010: Robert Meachem, an NFL Football Player, was honored.
  • June 27, 2017: Iesha-LaShay Phillips received a key for addressing societal issues.
  • October 8, 2022: Employees of Saint Francis Health System received a key for their community services.

Pennsylvania Honors

Philadelphia's Music Stars

  • 1993: The Who, a band, received a key.
  • December 15, 2022: Gillie Da King And Wallo, musicians, were honored.

Pittsburgh's Rapper

  • September 20, 2013: Mac Miller, a rapper, received a key.

Rhode Island Honors

Central Falls' Actor

  • June 7, 2014: Alec Baldwin, an actor, received a key for his financial support of the public library.

Pawtucket's Recording Artist

  • January 15, 2016: Jon B., a recording artist, received a key.

Providence's Leaders and Artists

  • December 9, 1921: Armando Diaz, an Italian commander, received a "solid gold" key.
  • (ca. 1980s): Joe Mangone received a key.
  • 1992: Rose P. Brock, a telephone operator, received a key.
  • June 20, 2005: Mark J. Lerman, an artistic director, received a key.
  • April 21, 2021: Michael Stephens, an NCAA official, received a key.
  • May 17, 2022: Ed Cooley, a basketball coach, received a key.
  • November 30, 2022: Jeremy Peña, a World Series MVP, received a key.

Woonsocket's MMA Athlete

  • May 12, 2017: Andre Soukhamthath, an MMA athlete, was honored.

South Carolina Honors

Columbia's Sports and Music Icons

  • November 9, 1973: Muhammad Ali, the boxer, received a key.
  • August 21, 2018: Beyoncé and Jay-Z received keys for their philanthropy.
  • February 5, 2019: Angell Conwell, a television actress, was honored.
  • November 13, 2023: A'ja Wilson, a WNBA forward, received a key.

Tennessee Honors

Dayton's Evolution Teacher

  • July 21, 1960: John T. Scopes, a teacher involved in the Scopes Trial, received a key.

Elizabethton's Football Player

  • June 21, 2013: Jason Witten, an American football player, was honored.

Knoxville's WWE Star

  • September 17, 2021: Bianca Blair, a WWE star, received a key.

Memphis's Chess and Music Stars

  • February 15, 2011: Hikaru Nakamura, a chess Grandmaster, received a key.
  • June 27, 2023: Drake, a musician, received a key.

Nashville's Global and Local Figures

  • 1967: Daniel Sharpe Malekebu, a Malawian doctor and activist, was honored.
  • 1984: John Glenn, an American Astronaut, received a key.
  • 1991: Jean Stafford, an Australian country music artist, was honored.

Oak Ridge's Community Members

  • July 2016: Katsumi Watanabe and Shinchiro Ito received keys.
  • June 29, 2022: Louise “Tiddle” Thomas was honored.

Texas Honors

Arlington's Music Superstar

  • March 30, 2023: Taylor Swift, a singer-songwriter, received a key.

Austin's Presidential and Spiritual Leaders

Beaumont's Music and Charity Heroes

  • November 17, 2005: Johnny and Edgar Winter, musicians, received keys.
  • June 4, 2015: Layla Nejad, for her role in a charity cycling trip, received a key.

Dallas's Authors and Sports Stars

  • December 13, 2009: M. K. Asante, an author and filmmaker, received a key.
  • November 21, 2018: Dirk Nowitzki, a basketball player, received a key for his achievements and charity.

Denison's Presidential Birthplace

El Paso's Comedian and Singer

  • February 10, 2012: Gabriel Iglesias, a comedian, received a key.
  • September 13, 2018: Khalid, an R&B artist, received a key.

Fort Worth's Baseball Champions

  • November 9, 2023: The Texas Rangers received a key for winning the 2023 World Series.

Houston's International Guests

  • September 22, 2019: Narendra Modi, the Prime Minister of India, received a key.

Irving's Tennis Stars and Spiritual Leaders

  • July 19, 2013: The Bryan brothers, twin tennis players, received keys.
  • August 20, 2017: Mahant Swami Maharaj, a Hindu swami, was honored.

Mansfield's Race Car Driver

  • June 6, 2013: Tony Kanaan, a race car driver, received a key.

Missouri City, TX's TV and Music Stars

  • March 2, 2015: Johnnie Moutra III (Johnny Long), a TV personality, received a key.
  • February 10, 2018: Travis Scott, a rapper, was honored.

North Richland Hills' Detective

  • February 11, 2023: Gabriel Cespedes, a detective, was honored.

Sugar Land's Spiritual Leader

Utah Honors

West Valley City's Royal Guest

  • July 27, 2011: Halaevalu Mata'aho 'Ahome'e, the Queen Mother of Tonga, was honored.

Ogden's Basketball Player

Kaysville City's YouTube Stars

  • May 31, 2017: Lincoln and Dan Markham, YouTube stars, received keys.

City of Moab's Actor

Virginia Honors

Roanoke's Actor

Washington Honors

Seattle's Music Legend

  • 1968: Seattle officials planned to give Jimi Hendrix, a musician, the keys to the city.
  • 1984: Seattle mayor Charles Royer gifted comedian Bob Hope a quiche instead of a key.

Bremerton's Band

  • September 2006: MxPx, a band, received keys.

Kent's YouTuber

  • August 2020: Justin "nothinbutlag", a YouTuber, received keys.

Spokane's Presidential and Music Guests

  • June 9, 1948: Harry S. Truman, the 33rd President of the United States, received a key.
  • 1980: Ted Nugent, a rock musician, received a key.

Wisconsin Honors

Green Bay's Football and Music Stars

  • January 4, 2004: Nate Poole, a football receiver, received a key.
  • August 10, 2016: Kiss, a rock band, received a key.

Wausau's Musician

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