The Historical Commission is pleased to announce great progress in the development of new maps of Harvard’s two historic districts: the Harvard Common and Shaker Village. These maps show the legal boundaries of the local districts as they overlap with property boundaries, and thus indicate which properties legally require applications to the Historical Commission when any substantial exterior modifications are being considered.
Our goal is to replace the baffling older maps with clearer versions. The boundaries have not changed. The new maps simply attempt to clarify what has been the case for 30 years. A Town Meeting vote will be necessary to adopt them legally.
We will host a public hearing regarding the proposed new maps Tuesday, March 4, at 8 p.m. at Hildreth House. Anyone who wishes to comment on the maps may do so at this time, or write directly to me either care of Town Hall or by e-mail at jfeist@charter.net. The draft new maps will be available at Town Hall.
Also of note, the Historical Commission has released a new “design guidelines” document. We hope that this multi-year project will help property owners understand the design issues related to modifying antique homes in a way that will be harmonious with the historic districts, and in fact, with any area comprising antique structures. Printed copies will soon be available in Town Hall, and an electronic version online at http://harvard.ma.us/histcomm.htm. It is a fascinating read for anyone interested in antique architecture, with wonderful photographs by Doug Coots of Harvard showing examples of each design concept.
Special thanks to the committee that produced this landmark document of our landmarks: Doug Coots, Roseanne Saalfield, and Susan Whalen-Frechette, and also to the other commissioners for their significant supporting roles. What a wonderful group that is!
Jonathan Feist, chairman
Harvard Historical Commission
