Chris Williams presented awards for Outstanding Preservation Achievement

MEREDITH — The NH Preservation Alliance presented an award for outstanding leadership in preservation planning and advocacy to Christopher P. Williams, for his lasting influence on preservation and architecture in New Hampshire, on April 27 in Meredith. The assembled guests represented the varied aspects of Williams’s extensive, continuing activities and positive results in Meredith, other Lakes Region communities and additional communities around the state.

NH Preservation Alliance board members Nicholas Mitchell and Jeanie Forrester emphasized Williams’ local impact and statewide reach. Williams has rescued and revived dozens of historic buildings, and for more than 35 years his architecture firm has shown a steadfast commitment to preservation and environmental sustainability. He helped with the eleventh-hour save of the Belmont Mill, and designed reconstructions or renovations at Canterbury Shaker Village and the University of New Hampshire. Williams was an early supporter of Main Street programs as well as an innovative historic preservation initiative for the Squam area.

Linda Frawley, past chair of the Belmont Heritage Commission, said that the iconic Belmont Mill would be a “pile of rubble” if not for Williams’ intervention in a preservation rescue that became a model for many more. The Belmont preservation effort is a “gift that keeps on giving.” according to Frawley.

Greater Meredith Program Board Member and long-time community development collaborator Rusty McLear offered a substantial list of Meredith improvements including flowers, walkways, parks and Main Street revival that Williams helped create. He emphasized Williams’ passion for making communities better and his positive attitude.

Williams’ daughter Mae Williams described how her parents instilled in her a commitment to enhancing community life and a desire to make the world a better place. She has combined a love of history and interest in sustainability into a historic preservation consulting practice.

Retired State Architectural Historian James Garvin spoke of Williams’ pioneering spirit as an architect who embraced historic preservation and environmental issues in the 1980s, and noted that his legacy includes not only historic preservation projects and also buildings he and his firm have designed that preservationists will be discussing and embracing in future generations.

Williams acknowledged the dedication and good work of his colleagues at his architecture firm and encouraged everyone to get involved in volunteering and civic life. “Get involved in what you feel passionate about,” he said.