Read below for an essay excerpted from 50 Remarkable Years, 50 Remarkable People, Wildlands’ 50th anniversary book honoring the partners and volunteers who have made remarkable contributions to land conservation in Southeastern Massachusetts.

Read “The Next Remarkable Chapter,” our series introduction by President Karen Grey.

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The Plymouth landscape is adorned with beautiful buildings and exquisite homes built by Les Plimpton. So, when Les himself points to Davis-Douglas Farm and says, “This is my baby,” it truly means something.

In 2010, the Wildlands Trust board acted quickly on the unexpected opportunity to purchase the iconic Bongiovanni Homestead as a new headquarters for the organization. The board’s next decision was equally important: to hire Les Plimpton as the general contractor.

“I drove by this beautiful property multiple times a day for 40-plus years,” Les said. “I understood how important it was for the buildings to blend into this beautiful, highly visible landscape.” Adding to this pressure was the fact that the client was a land trust.

Ever mindful of the importance of process and communication, Les adeptly led the project team of engineers, architects, planners, tradesmen, board members, and staff. He poured himself into his work, perfectly balancing aesthetics and pragmatism to create a beautiful product on budget. Thanks to Les, Davis-Douglas Farm is a truly special place that promises an uplifting experience to all who visit.

In addition to being a talented builder, Les is a great person. He exudes kindness, loves his family, and counts many as dear friends and happy clients, including Wildlands Trust.

Purchase 50 Remarkable Years, 50 Remarkable People today: wildlandstrust.org/shop50