Land of Make Believe owner Chris Maier honored for decades of leadership and community service
HOPE TOWNSHIP, N.J. (Warren County) — Longtime Land of Make Believe owner Christopher Maier was recently recognized by local, county, state and federal officials for his contributions to Warren County, the amusement park industry and the community.
Maier, who took over leadership of the Hope Township amusement park in the early 1970s, was honored during a recent Warren County Board of County Commissioners meeting with a proclamation recognizing him and the Land of Make Believe for their “high esteem, meritorious record and impact on Warren County.”
A joint New Jersey legislative resolution presented by Assemblyman John DiMaio also recognized Maier and the park, stating that Christopher Maier and the Land of Make Believe “has established a model to emulate and set a standard of excellence toward which others might strive.”
Officials noted that U.S. Rep. Tom Kean Jr. entered a statement into the Congressional Record recognizing Christopher Maier and the Land of Make Believe as the “World’s Greatest Amusement Park” and the most “Iconic” amusement park, as well as being ranked No. 1 in New Jersey.
Hope Township Mayor Tim McDonough also presented a proclamation recognizing Maier and the park’s contributions to the township.
The Land of Make Believe opened in 1954 and has grown under Maier’s leadership into one of New Jersey’s most well-known family amusement destinations.
Beyond his work at the park, Maier played a role in the creation of Warren County Community College in 1976 alongside former Freeholder Chuck Haytaian.
Why is it so successful and enduring? “It is because of Chris Maier’s commitment to excellence,” said Hope’s longtime Mayor. He added “the Land of Make Believe under the tutelage of Chris Maier has put Hope on the national map in so many positive ways.”
DiMaio referred to Maier as his “Good Friend” and stated, “The Land of Make Believe is an important part of Warren County history as a landmark and Amusement Park in Hope Township.”
Dr. Will Austin, president of Warren County Community College, said, “Land of Make Believe is nationally and internationally recognized. It is so well known, it is amazing. It means a lot to people, not only in Warren County but everywhere.”
Knowlton Township Mayor Frank Van Horn highlighted Maier’s support of the Warren County Fair and other community initiatives.
He said “Chris is an inspiration as a person and the Land of Make Believe is an inspiration as a great tourism destination.”
He added, “Warren County and Hope Township are so lucky to have the Land of Make Believe and Chris’s outstanding leadership.”
Maier, who once worked at Disneyland, has received numerous honors throughout his career from elected officials, industry organizations, chambers of commerce and community groups. He is a founding member of the Hope Area Chamber of Commerce and a member of the Warren County Hall of Fame.
According to those who know him, the recognition Maier values most comes from families who thank him for providing a safe, affordable and memorable experience at the park and for making the Land of Make Believe part of their family traditions.
