Easton Historical Commission Homepage
The Historical Commission was established for the preservation, protection and development of the historical and archeological assets of the Town of Easton. Historical Commission members are appointed by the Board of Selectmen and serve terms of three years each.
The Historical Commission has taken a leadership position in various preservation initiatives, including a survey of historic properties, surveys of historic villages to qualify them for National Register status and the approval by Town Meeting in 2004 of a Demolition Permit Review By-law, among other efforts. It works with developers in assuring sensitive restorations of historic properties and improved design of new development. It also develops preservation restrictions for public and private properties in coordination with restoration efforts.
News
Easton Photography Competition & Chaffin and Briggs Awards
The Easton Historical Commission is inviting residents to participate in a photography competition from the end of November until the middle of January. Entries will be divided into three themes: portrayal of historical beauty of Easton, natural beauty of Easton and beauty of Easton through its people. The criteria for the judging of these images will be divided between artistic ability, creativity of subject and adherence to theme. Entries will be accepted between Nov. 21 and Jan. 10.
When the Historical Commission announces the photo winner, they will also announce the winner of the Chaffin and Briggs Awards on Jan. 21 at 1 p.m. at Unity Church.
The Chaffin Award is given to the individual who has made a historical contribution to the historic preservation of Easton. The Briggs Award is given in recognition of a building, site, landscape, architectural, or archeological project that is a significant part of Easton's historical integrity. Recipients of these prestigious awards will be carefully chosen by the Easton Historical Commission.
May, 2011 is Historic Preservation Month
Furnace Village and Center Street Historic Property Surveys - Request for Proposals
The Historical Commission is seeking proposals from consultants to conduct an historic property survey to assess and document approximately 150 selected cultural and architectural resources within the Furnace Village National Register Historic District and the most northern portion of Center Street. The surveys shall follow Massachusetts Historical Commission (MHC) survey standards and methodology. All submittals must be received at the Easton Town Offices by 10:30 AM, Tuesday, March 22, 2011. Questions should be directed to Stephanie Danielson at sdanielson@easton.ma.us or 508.230.0641.
North Easton Village Historic Property Surveys
In October of 2009, the Historical Commission contracted with Kathryn Grover and Larson Fisher Associates to conduct an intensive-level historic property survey of roughly 150 dwellings and commercial and industrial buildings in the village of North Easton. The survey involved field work, photographic documentation and extensive records research. The purpose of the survey was to provide documentation meeting current standards for the North Easton National Register Historic District. This district was established in 1972.
The surveys are on record at the Department of Planning and Community Development. We hope to make them available through the website late fall 2010.
The work done to create these historic surveys has been financed in part with Federal funds from the National Park Service, U.S. Department of the Interior, through the Massachusetts Historical Commission, Secretary of the Commonwealth William Francis Galvin, Chairman. However, the contents and opinions do not necessarily reflect the views or policies of the Department of the Interior, or the Massachusetts Historical Commission.
This program receives Federal financial assistance for identification and protection of historic properties. Under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and the Age Discrimination Act of 1975, as amended, the U.S. Department of the Interior prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, disability or age in its federally assisted programs. If you believe you have been discriminated against in any program, activity, or facility as described above, or if you desire further information, please write to: Office for Equal Opportunity, National Park Service, 1849 C. Street NW, Washington, DC 20240
Rules & Regulations
The Historical Commission has adopted rules and regulations to facilitate administering the Building Demolition Permit Review bylaw. These rules and regulations clarify the process and make it clearer to applicants when a demolition review is applicable; what information is needed; and sets a clear timetable for Commission action. Click here for an overview of the Demolition Permit Review process.
Contact Us
The Historical Commission is supported by the Department of Planning & Community Development. Please email Tim Harrigan, Community Planner.
Commission Members
Melanie Deware, Chair- Paul Fitzpatrick, Secretary
- Steve Donahue
- Timothy Hurley
- Edmund Hands
- John Ventresco, Vice-Chair
- Greg Strange
- Karen Cacciapuoti, Alternate
- Greg Galer, Alternate