On Saturday, July 29, the Oak Bluffs Library hosts an artist reception for Dorothy Burnham who turned 108 years old this year. Most summer days, Ms. Burnham can be found on her Camp Ground porch chatting with her neighbors.

Born a century ago on a very different Martha’s Vineyard and having served as a medic in Germany during World War II, Clifton Athearn is a living link to the past. He celebrates his 100th birthday on June 30.

The poet and novelist whose grace, elegance and remarkable longevity spanned more than a century, died at her home overlooking Stonewall Pond.