Patton Praised for Her 'Important Role' on the North Shore

Joanne Patton was honored Wednesday night as one of eight "Distinguished Leaders" for her years of local involvement, ranging from the ownership of Green Meadows Farm to the recent donation of her family's estate to the town of Hamilton.

The awards were handed out during a dinner ceremony at Danversport Yacht Club hosted by the North Shore Chamber of Commerce.

Patton lived in 27 homes before settling in Hamilton, said Karen Andreas, publisher of the Salem News and outgoing chairman of the Chamber who handed out the awards.

"Name a non-profit on the North Shore and Mrs. Patton has played an important role," Andreas said.

She served on the North Shore Music Theater Board of Trustees for many years and remains involved at her church. St. John's Espicopal Church in Beverly Farms.

Patton co-founded Special Friends, a non-profit that still thrives and is based at the Community House, and has overseen the growth of Green Meadows from one field to seven fields.

Plus, her five children, seven grandchildren and five great grandchildren all have an important role in her life, Andreas said.