Formed in 1980, Portsmouth Advocates was established to “promote the maintenance of the historical and architectural integrity of the structures and cityscape of the City of Portsmouth within and outside of the historic districts of the City.

Historic preservation and sustainability

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Portsmouth Plaque Program

Enter the exciting world of house history research and celebrate your house’s past with a commemorative plaque. This program highlights the historical and architectural significance of Portsmouth’s buildings and cityscape. These plaques are an enduring, visual reminder of the individuals and families that have shaped our city’s rich history. Join us in celebrating and preserving Portsmouth’s heritage!

Advocates Awards

The 2022 Portsmouth Advocates Award winners. From left to right: Roslyn Weems, Chair of Portsmouth Advocates; Nancy Carmer; Lawrence Yerdon; Bruce Blanchard; Christine Dwyer and Mike Huxtable; David Ryng; and Gerry Ward (accepting on behalf of the NH Bureau of Historic Sites for the Wentworth-Coolidge Mansion).

2022 Advocates Award Winners

Restoring the Integrity of a Resource: State of New Hampshire Bureau of Historic Sites for restoration of the Billiard Room at the Wentworth-Coolidge Mansion

Continued and Sensitive Maintenance of a Historic Property: Christine Dwyer and Michael Huxtable (homeowners) and David Ryng (contractor)

Arthur J. Gerrier Memorial Award, which is presented to an individual who is committed to serving our historic community: Bruce Blanchard (Preservation Manager- Piscataqua Region at Historic New England)

John Grossman Memorial Award, which recognizes an individual who makes a reality of an organization’s mission by bridging the theoretical and the practical: Lawrence Yerdon (President and CEO of Strawbery Banke Museum)

The inaugural Nancy Carmer Preservation Planning Award. The award celebrates individuals or groups who promote innovative, vibrant, and economically sustainable uses for historic properties and is presented to its namesake: Nancy Carmer (Former Economic Development Program Manager for the City of Portsmouth)