Cambridge Historical Commission
Preservation Publications and Technical Services

• Publications available at CHC -- Maintaining Your Old House in Cambridge, and other books...
• Considering window replacement? Read this first.
• Paint color consultations and book -- expert advice about exterior paint colors
• Meeting dates, Application forms, etc. -- for owners of designated historic properties
• Before you replace your windows, read our Window Guide
• Research library and archives -- Find out more about your building!
• Useful preservation links -- Check other internet resources.
• Technical preservation assistance -- Still not sure and need our advice?
• Preservation grant program -- for low to moderate income eligible home owners
• The CHC staff has printed an information guide about wood windows and important considerations regarding their repair or replacement. Follow this link to view the guide.

WHAT ARE THE BEST WAYS TO MAINTAIN MY OLDER HOUSE?

The Historical Commission recommends its publication  Maintaining Your Old House in Cambridge, which includes discussion of repairs and maintenance of houses from the early 1800's to the mid-20th century. The book is available for $9.95 at the Commission office.  A list of other helpful publications on old house maintenance and restoration is also available.

HOW CAN I RESTORE MISSING DECORATIVE ELEMENTS OF MY BUILDING?

The Historical Commission files may contain an old photograph of your building, which would assist your research of the missing details. If there are no old photographs available, there may be clues on the building itself which would help Commission staff members make suggestions about what would be appropriate. We recommend that you make an appointment for technical assistance and a free staff consultation on site.

TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE:

The Commission offers free technical assistance to property owners in the city who wish to restore or rehabilitate their properties. Property owners may call on the Commission staff for a consultation on any rehabilitation issue that affects the architectural integrity of their buildings.  The staff encourages this kind of informal consultation prior to the submission of applications for hearings before the Historical Commission or one of the neighborhood conservation district commissions.  See the commission member and staff  Contacts  page for phone numbers and e-mail addresses.