Chris Glass
Over the course of the last 45 years, preservation in Maine has been supported by the leadership of Christopher Carson Glass of Camden. A native of Texas, Chris moved to Maine in 1970, shortly after graduating from the Yale University School of Art and Architecture. He established an architectural practice in Camden in 1974, working on both new design and the rehabilitation of historic properties.
Chris was elected to the board of this organization in 1975 (then known as Maine Citizens for Historic Preservation) and demonstrating his leadership, he served as its president from 1978-1980 and again in 2007-2008. Chris became an architect member of the Maine Historic Preservation Commission from 1979-1991, and also led it, as Chair from 1985 to 1991.
Demonstrating his communication skills for historic preservation, Chris edited the early annual newsletters of Maine Preservation from 1975-1984, which he illustrated with many detailed and wonderful drawings of significant historic properties throughout our state.
A gifted writer, Chris is also the author of three books on Maine historic architecture: At Home in Maine: Houses Designed to fit the Land (2005), Historic Maine Homes: 300 Years of Great Houses (2009), and co-author with Earle Shettleworth and Scott Hanson of Homes Down East: Classic Maine Coastal Cottages and Town Houses (2014).
Not only is Chris a talented writer, he is also an eloquent speaker. He has given many lectures at Maine Preservation’s conferences and for other organizations, quickly drawing in the audience with his insightful comments and quick wit. He has helped in multiple ways to effectively communicate the importance of historic preservation, which is an invaluable asset in our field.
Chris also worked directly in education as he taught architecture courses at Bowdoin College for twenty years.
In addition Chris has been an active advocate for state efforts, and also very involved in local preservation efforts, including in his home town of Camden.
Meanwhile, in his professional life, he was directly involved in prescribing high quality historic preservation rehabilitation work on significant buildings throughout the state. In 1983 he provided 12 drawings to Farmington, and its downtown still reflects his recommendations. He was architect for restoration of the beautiful 1820 Ruggles House in Columbia Falls and rehabilitation of the 1853 Rankin Block in Rockland. He also planned Castine Historical Society’s rehabilitations of Abbot School and The Grindle House. His more recent work on Freedom Mill is nothing short of miraculous – and facilitated the founding of the now-famous The Lost Kitchen.
Chris was also a key participant in starting and funding Maine Preservation’s Protect and Sell Program. He personally provided a generous match to a grant from The 1772 Foundation that got the program up and running. Protect and Sell has been a critical driver in protecting numerous historic properties in Maine through the use of preservation easements. Chris continues to share his expertise in his fourth stint on the board of Maine Preservation.
Chris, you have been an exemplary leader throughout your career, generously volunteering your talents and gifts to promote, communicate, lead, advocate, rehabilitate buildings and donate to preservation efforts throughout Maine. We are all the fortunate beneficiaries of your vision, commitment and tremendous contributions and are pleased to recognize you yet again with this Lifetime Dedication Award.
