Massachusetts State Historic Preservation Plan 2018-2022

Skelly, Christopher

Introduction: "Although historic preservation efforts began in Massachusetts well before the arrival of the 20th century, it was the mid-20th century that marked a distinct change in how we, as a state, approached historic preservation. Reacting to individual threats to historic resources was no longer satisfactory. With urban renewal and new highway construction clearing whole city neighborhoods, and suburban development obliterating open spaces, it was clear that statewide preservation planning efforts were needed. As a result, new state legislation was passed in 1963 that established the Massachusetts Historical Commission and encouraged cities and towns to establish their own, local historical commissions. From that time onward, historic preservation planning in Massachusetts has been a partnership between the Massachusetts Historical Commission, local governments, nonprofit organizations, state agencies, as well as many other organizations and individuals. During 2013, the Massachusetts Historical Commission celebrated 50 years of historic preservation planning. We reflected on our earliest efforts, recognized our collective accomplishments with our preservation partners and contemplated what the future held for all of us. This State Historic Preservation Plan for 2018-2022 continues this approach as we focus on how best to bring the past into the future." Project funding was provided in part by a Historic Preservation Fund grant to the Massachusetts Historical Commission administered by the State, Tribal, Local Plans and Grants division, National Park Service, U.S. Department of the Interior (grant number P18AF00086).

Massachusetts State Historic Preservation Plan 2018-2022

See also

Collections