Building Quality Communities: Historic Preservation in Connecticut, 2005

Spencer, Linda; Donohue, Mary

From Introduction: "...In 1997, the Connecticut Historical Commission published 'Historic Preservation in Connecticut: Planning a Future with a Past', the agency's statewide historic preservation planning document. The intervening years have witnessed many historic preservation successes. Among them are legislation that enhances protection of historic preservation; expansion of the Connecticut Freedom Trail and funds to further research and designation of African American heritage resources; completion of new townwide surveys; and state monies for a study of the nationally significant Washington-Rochambeau Revolutionary War Route and preparation of a thematic National Register of Historic Places nomination. Through the efforts of town governments, concerned citizens, and local preservation organizations and historical societies, the value of historic properties to communities has been recognized by increased listings on the State and National Registers of Historic Places. Public/private sector historic rehabilitation projects have saved threatened buildings. The new historic preservation plan, 'Building Quality Communities: Historic Preservation in Connecticut', is intended to expand awareness and commitment to preserving the state's diverse cultural heritage and resources, and to increase public knowledge about the goals and benefits of historic preservation. The plan identifies critical issues facing historic preservation in Connecticut and strategies which can be implemented to maintain, strengthen, improve, and increase the effectiveness of existing preservation efforts. The following chapters provide a picture of Connecticut's rich heritage and its value, describe the benefits of historic preservation, and present an overview of the State Historic Preservation Office programs and the partnerships that help preserve the state's heritage resources for future generations. Interspersed throughout are 'success stories' - examples of how historic preservation has become a means of maintaining and furthering community character and spirit. Although each is different, the projects described resulted from creating 'common cause' - linking historic preservation and other community goals, forging an alliance between the public and private sectors, and bringing together diverse interests and groups. Integral to these success stories is the role of the Historic Preservation and Museum Division's State Historic Preservation Office programs: in bringing attention to the value of historic properties; in providing technical expertise in restoration; and in making rehabilitation projects financially feasible. ...'Building Quality Communities' envisions partnerships that will foster a preservation ethic, government leadership that recognizes the value of heritage resources and works to make historic preservation a matter of public policy, and creation of an informed citizenry which understands the role of historic preservation in maintaining and enhancing quality of life in their communities. ...The State Historic Preservation Office works with a public concerned about its history. We listen. The goals and objectives set forth in this plan are informed by the expressions of concern and requests for assistance by citizens, preservation organizations, and government agencies each year. In the accomplishment of our mission, the experience and knowledge gained through staff interaction with citizens and local governments helps the State Historic Preservation Office plan and set priorities in program implementation." Project funding was provided in part by a Historic Preservation Fund Grant to the Connecticut State Historic Preservation Office, Department of Economic and Community Development, administered by the State, Tribal, Local Plans and Grants division, National Park Service, U.S. Department of the Interior (grant number 09-05-20408, CT-05-05).

Building Quality Communities: Historic Preservation in Connecticut, 2005

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