Otis
Location: east side of 214 Pioneer Street
Ridgefield's Political Pup
The alleyway on the east side of Coaches Cuts is called ‘Otis Alley,’ a tribute to the pup who ran for Ridgefield's City Manager in 2004/5 and made national headlines.
Otis was a black and white Boston terrier that lived with his family Scott and Cathy Hughes the owners of the Ridgefield Hardware store. On most days Otis could either be found in the store or wandering up and down Main Avenue and Pioneer Street sidewalks hoping for treats from local business owners.
In 2004, after City Manager Randy Bombardier was fired from his position following misdemeanor charges regarding the improper removal of lead paint from City Hall, community members Donna and Peggy Quall, Tim Dawdy and Patricia Thompson were sitting outside of Lilly Wiggans Antiques discussing the challenges the city was facing when Otis came by looking for a treat. Patricia suggested that Otis should run for City Managera and Tim responded, "That's a great idea! He would have a leg up on City Council and he loves kids." The discussion inspired Tim to create a flyer and post it all over downtown Ridgefield the following morning.
With features in local papers, the ‘Paul Harvey Show,’ and even the BBC, folks from around the county and country stopped by the hardware store for a chance to meet the political pup. Otis became an instant celebrity!
Otis was not appointed City Manager, however he continued showing up for the community. He greeted fans from a Plymouth convertible in Ridgefield’s 2005 Fourth of July parade with a new mission - "Otis for King.". His escorts wore shirts howling his new intentions to become King of the City! Though he may not have received a crown, Otis fetched first place in the Dogs and Pets competition.
Otis passed away in March, 2008, at the age of 15 (or 85 in dog years). Scott and Cathy Hughes held a daylong celebration of the pup, while then City Manager Justin Clary penned a proclamation honoring the constitutional canine.
The Hughes’ of Ridgefield Hardware have continued to own Boston Terriers who greet customers at the store. In October 2018, Kassi Summers painted a mural of the two living canine-employees at the time – Odette and Snooks. You can also find an original copy of Otis’ campaign flyer on the entry door at the west side of the Ridgefield Hardware, and may just find other mementos available of Otis’ time in Ridgefield politics.