After a public hearing on June 23rd, the Newton Historical Commission (NHC) approved a study, to take stock of WN Hill's historical resources. (To clear up some misunderstandings, the NHC was not voting to form a Local Historic District. Also the City was not being asked for taxpayer funding to pay for a study.)
We have over 25 volunteers assisting with this study and would welcome more.
The study will follow guidelines from the Mass. Historical Commission. It includes compiling a photo and descriptive inventory of buildings on WN Hill which we will do in collaboration with Historic Newton and the Jackson Homestead. The scope also includes the evolution of WN Hill historically as a community, and involves researching the people, architectural trends, and economic developments that created the streetscapes we see today.
Volunteers can contribute in a variety of ways – even if you just have a few hours a week.Students seeking an internship are also welcome! Examples of tasks: field survey, archival work, photography, digital mapping, library research, writing, data collection and analysis, dropbox and admin management. Training will be provided, and a professional preservation consultant will provide guidance on the methodology.
Fill out the contact form if you would like to volunteer, noting your time availability, skills and interests.
Many people have asked the important question about the link between preservation and property values. Some homebuyers are drawn to communities with renovated historic homes; other buyers give less priority to the look or architectural "fabric" of the neighborhood. As we locate relevant studies, they are being added to the website under FAQ.
Our community today -- aesthetically, financially and emotionally – is worth more than the sum of the parts. There are a range of views how best to assure that for the future. Let's continue that discussion, and ideas are welcome.