Historic Preservation
The Office of Historic Preservation promotes and protects the City of Boston's cultural heritage. Part of the Environment, Energy and Open Space Cabinet, the department houses the Boston Landmarks Commission, the City Archaeology Program and the Commemoration Commission.
Together, our teams raise awareness about environmental, social, and economic benefits of Boston's historic resources and the stories that can be told through cultural resources. We also promote the benefits of adaptive reuse of historic buildings and materials. Our department fosters economic development and cultural diversity by protecting and advocating for Boston's unique sense of place.
Contact
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26 Court Street
Floor 2Boston, MA 02108 -
Office HoursMonday through Friday, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Spotlight
Announcing the Jack and Acton Project: The Enslaved Potters of Charlestown
The City Archaeology Program is pleased to announce a new research initiative called the Jack and Acton Project.
From Petition to Plan: Charlestown’s First Historic District Is Taking Shape
Charlestown is one step closer to establishing its very first local Landmark District—and the community is at the center of the process.
National News: Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act Under Review
Across the U.S., the protection of historic places depends heavily on Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA).
Department Divisions
Departments
Boston Landmarks Commission
The Landmarks Commission (BLC) and the 10 local historic district commissions are comprised of volunteers nominated by professional organizations and neighborhood groups. The Commissions are tasked with reviewing exterior changes made to properties within their specific jurisdictions. The BLC also regulates the city's Article 85 Demolition Delay ordinance.
Archaeology Program
The City Archaeology Program was founded in 1983. The program's goal is to protect Boston's irreplaceable archaeological resources. Boston has hundreds of known archaeological sites within the City's borders. Archaeology staff curate the archaeological collections at the City’s Archaeology Laboratory.
Commemoration Commission
The Boston Commemoration Commission will mark upcoming historical anniversaries, including the United States' 250th in 2026, the 400th anniversary of the founding of the City of Boston in 2030, and other significant historical anniversaries.
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Environment, Energy, and Open Space Cabinet
Brian Swett is the Chief of Environment, Energy, and Open Space for the City of Boston. In this role, Chief Swett is responsible for leading the Cabinet in achieving its mission of enhancing environmental justice and quality of life in Boston by protecting air, water, climate, and land resources, as well as preserving and improving the integrity of Boston's architectural and historic resources.
Departments, Boards & Agencies
Contact
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26 Court Street
Floor 2Boston, MA 02108 -
Office HoursMonday through Friday, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
