Maria Miles
2010 Essex Heritage Hero

Maria Miles moved to Salisbury from Lawrence to assume the position of Secretary of the Executive Board of Trade (precursor to the Salisbury Chamber of Commerce).  As the organization evolved, she was elected as the first President of the Salisbury Chamber of Commerce in 1988 and has been a highly energetic leader, working on behalf of the business and tourism interests ever since.

As President, Maria worked tirelessly to promote Salisbury as a welcoming destination for residents and visitors, promoting the recreational, historic, environmental, and cultural and community assets of Salisbury Beach and its developing business districts. For many years, Maria lobbied federal, state and local officials to establish a regional visitor center along Route 95 South, as a gateway to the magnificent resources of the MA North Shore – including her beloved Salisbury Beach. Her hard work and determination was finally realized in 2000, when then Governor Cellucci led a team of elected officials, long-time colleagues, family and friends  as he dedicated the opening of the Maria Miles Visitor’s Center to much community fanfare. She considers this achievement one of her most precious professional accomplishments and memories.

Maria is renowned for her efforts to increase tourism for higher economic impact. She has been a member of the North of Boston Convention & Visitors Bureau for over 20 years, serving as an officer and Chairperson in 1999-2003. As President, she organized the Governor’s State Tourism Conference and was awarded their highest honor for her long-time contributions. She continues her involvement today as Director Emeritus.

Maria is synonymous with Salisbury. She has been personally involved with every initiative that was designed to advance its business, tourism and cultural heritage interests. Her community engagement included a long-time relationship with the Anna Jaques Hospital Aide Association and service as a Trustee of its Foundation Board. She also serves as President of the Salisbury Historical Society, President of the Service Center of Greater Lawrence and Director of the Salisbury Beach Partnership which was organized to support revitalization efforts in a manner in which they enhance economic growth, public use and access.

Maria has been challenged by poor health in recent years, but that has not deterred her commitment to her beloved Salisbury. Maria credits the support given by her loving husband of forty years, Gary, recently deceased, and their four children, Dianna and husband Brian Smith, Gary L. Miles Jr. and his wife Victoria, and Robert L. Miles and his wife Jeannette, and beloved son, Joseph L. Miles, who died in 2002, all of Salisbury, as a source of strength, joy and inspiration.