“The Arthur Ashley Williams Foundation helped establish Cardigan’s Williams Workshop to honor his vision for the School. Today’s boys continue to use the space to explore woodworking and other crafts as part of an active, hand-on approach to learning.”
Arthur Ashley Williams was a Massachusetts businessman and philanthropist who employed thousands at his Goodwill Shoe Company, known for the invention of the steel-toed safety boot. Mr. Williams owned a summer home with over a thousand acres of farm and woodland on the lower slopes of Mt. Cardigan, and his participation in various civic, religious, and fraternal organizations included service to New Hampshire organizations such as The Golden Rule Farms and the Mascoma Fair. Late in life he established the Arthur Ashley Williams Foundation, which family members use to support worthwhile organizations today.
Mr. Williams became a founding incorporator of Cardigan Mountain School on December 18, 1945, well before the School opened to students. Writing to the other founders at the time, Harold P. “Hap” Hinman described Mr. Williams as “a very successful industrialist who has never lost touch with fellow man—and whose specialty is helping youth.” He assured his colleagues that they would “find out that Arthur Williams has more ideas, enthusiasm, and energy than a dozen ordinary men; has always led a very busy and generous life—ever seeking to help others.”
During his lifetime, Mr. Williams remained a Cardigan incorporator, donor, and enthusiastic supporter of Cardigan students. Following his death in 1956, the Arthur Ashley Williams Foundation helped establish Cardigan’s Williams Workshop to honor his vision for the School. In summer 2020, the Williams Workshop was relocated to Wallach, Cardigan’s new hub for active, creative, and experiential learning, where our boys continue to explore woodworking and other crafts as part of an active, hand-on approach to learning. The Williams Workshop is a mainstay of Cardigan programs and symbolizes the lasting impact of Arthur Williams’ legacy at Cardigan.