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
Pressing Play on Beacon Hill: How Thoughtful Design Moves a Historic District Forward
Historic preservation is not about pressing pause on a neighborhood; it is about pressing play with purpose.
Celebrating 50 Years of the Boston Landmarks Commission and 50 Years of Service
To celebrate fifty years of protecting and preserving the history and culture of Boston, the Office of Historic Preservation hosted a celebration honoring the dedication of Boston Landmarks Commissioners and staff who have guided the Commission's work thr
Another Name in the Deeds: Uncovering Canongo’s Story
While digging into historic documents for the Jack and Acton Parker-Harris Pottery Project, the City's Archaeology Program came across a reference to another Black resident in the property deeds.
Three things you need to know about Landmarking in Boston
Learn more about the Landmark Designation Process!
Emerging Exchange District could help spur more housing conversions in historic Downtown buildings
The Boston Landmarks Commission is proposing the establishment of a new National Register Historic District in Downtown Boston, called the Exchange District
Welcome Back Bean Blowers! A Back Bay Landmark is Restored
After nearly ten years the construction scaffolding and scrim shrouding the First Baptist Church at 110 Commonwealth Avenue have been removed, revealing the restoration of one of the city’s most iconic church towers.
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.
