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
More Than a Restoration: The Continuing Story of Hale House
Thanks to the preservation efforts of Olde Mohawk Historic Preservation and funding support through the City of Boston’s Community Preservation Act, the Edward Everett Hale House has undergone a thoughtful restoration that ensures its continued preservati
A Historic Roxbury Landmark Finds New Life Through Teen Empowerment
As the national headquarters of the Teen Empowerment Center, the historic Warren House is a place where upcoming generations learn that their voices matter and how to use them effectively.
Mayor Wu Appoints New Commissioners to Boston Preservation Boards
Mayor Michelle Wu has announced several appointments and reappointments to the Boston Landmarks Commission, the Fort Point Channel Landmark District Commission, and the Back Bay Architectural Commission.
A New Landmark for Charlestown: The Swallow Mansion
On May 12, the Boston Landmarks Commission voted to recommend the Landmark designation of the Swallow Mansion at 33 Cordis Street in Charlestown. The designation was subsequently approved by Mayor Michelle Wu and the City Council.
Balancing Preservation and Growth in Brighton’s Aberdeen District
At its April 9 hearing, the Aberdeen Architectural Conservation District Commission (AACDC) approved the construction of four new townhouses on an empty lot.
Community Voices Inform Proposed Monument Square Landmark District
At a recent community gathering, Charlestown residents learned about the proposed district, asked questions, and shared their perspectives on preserving one of the neighborhood's most historic places.
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.
