Brunswick lost a true and loyal friend with the death of Richard Nemrow on Feb. 2. Richard saw beauty and potential in Brunswick’s oldest downtown buildings at a time when few shared that vision.  Cumulatively Richard’s projects launched a slow growing appreciation for the contribution Brunswick’s most historic buildings could make to the heart of the community.  His projects were pivotal and consequential beyond their boundaries. 

Richard understood the importance of corner properties for setting the tone. He renovated the characterful Victorian at the corner of Union and Lincoln Streets, the elegant brick Bayview Gallery building at the corner of Maine Street and Gilman Avenue, the Pumpkin House at the corner of School Street and Park Row, and the Carney House next door.  The two Park Row mansions together complete the outstanding block that is home to the Pejepscot Historical Society.  The view of their back entries and multiple chimneys is the photogenic backdrop for al fresco dining at Wild Oats.  His wife Ann’s genius for color and flair for landscape design made every project a standout.  Richard’s properties star in Brunswick’s most loved photos and paintings. 

Together with Dick Morrell, Richard commissioned several traffic studies with the goal of making Maine Street more pedestrian friendly.  Those ideas have resulted in incremental improvements and ongoing dialogue. 

Richard Nemrow followed his vision through economic downturns, bureaucratic snafus, and lagging returns on investment because he loved the work he had chosen.  If love is steadfast, if love is generous, if love is given bravely in good faith, then Richard loved Brunswick as few others have.  I will miss him. 

Claudia Knox, 

Brunswick