Maude Bristol-Perry joined an exclusive group on Saturday when street signage at the corner of 24th Street and Territorial Road was topped with a new sign honoring her more than 50 years of leadership and service to the Battle Creek community.

The sign reads “Honorary Mayor Maude Bristol-Perry Ave.” It was unveiled during a ceremony at 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, May 8, her birthday, at the corner of 24th and Territorial. This area of town holds special significance for Bristol-Perry because it is where the childcare center she originally incorporated in 1973 is located. 
 
Maude Bristol-Perry greeted many wellwishers on May 8.At that time, the opening of her childcare facility, Sugar and Spice Childcare Center, made it among the very first women-owned businesses in the city and one of a very few owned and operated by a Black woman. This business venture is among a long list of “firsts” for which Bristol-Perry is being honored. Read the full story here.

Family and friends of Maude Bristol-Perry watch the festivities s on May 8, during the day of the unveiling of Honorary Mayor Maude Bristol-Perry Avenue.Joe Wright of the City of Battle Creek puts up the sign unveiling Honorary Mayor Maude Bristol-Perry Avenue.Johnny Bristol, Jr., holds hands with his mom Maude Bristol- Perry as they walk toward the street sign of Honorary Mayor Maude Bristol-Perry Avenue.Maude Bristol-Perry reacts to the street sign of Honorary Mayor Maude Bristol-Perry Avenue.Maude Bristol-Perry talks with family and friends on May 8, during the day of the unveiling of Honorary Mayor Maude Bristol- Perry Avenue.Maude Bristol-Perry posed for many pictures on May 8, during the day of the unveiling of Honorary Mayor Maude Bristol-Perry Avenue.