Chase’s Mill

Citation Award // Rick and Duffy Monahon

Architect // ICON Architecture

GC // Harvey Construction

MEP/FP, Structural, Security/IT Engineer // Rist Frost Shumway

Theater Design // OTJ Architects

Theater Planning // Fisher Dachs Associates

Audiovisual and Acoustics // Acentech

Description

The challenge, both architecturally and programmatically was to address the question ofhow this small enterprise could continue to be functional and relevant for the current andfuture of Mill Hollow, while maintaining its important role as a working example of thishistorical water-power technology. Under the stewardship of the nonprofit Mill HollowHeritage Association, Chase’s Mill serves as a workshop for hands-on learning and acommunity gathering space. Our water-powered mill embodies the history of small-townindustry, celebrating New England’s vibrant past while inspiring the future of sustainablepower and rural technology. This project was a true community effort drawing upon skilledcraftspeople and volunteers under the leadership of the Mill Hollow Heritage Association.Architect: Dan Bartlett AIA, DB Architects in Keene NH. General Contractor: Jeff Ingram,Ingram Construction in Westmoreland NH.

Jury Comments

Your jury imagined the client – perhaps all involved – to be the epitome of small groups of citizens having the energy, vision, courage, and commitment to make a difference in the world.

In this case, by saving a rare and increasingly unique building type, particularly buildings whose original relevance, offers lessons and insights in solving the challenges of our time. Usually sited along waterways with advantageous hydrological features, structures like this are often historical anchors to communities that grew up around them. Buildings like this therefore are vital cultural resources conveying sense of place.  

Clearly a labor of love over many years and hours of volunteer effort – carefully considered design, workmanship, materials, a modest budget and an enduring level of community support. Extremely limited resources culminate in a beautiful job in an exemplary effort poised to inspire others. I believe the New Hampshire Preservation Alliance, in praise of this project, described this endeavor in the best way:

“…an endangered historic mill building back to life and linked its heritage with future educational and community development ventures in a model that we hope others might emulate.”

The jury recognizes Chase’s Mill with a Monahon Preservation Citation Award.

Photo credit: MHHA and Dan Bartlett