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Preserving Berlin's History

Berlin Massachusetts

Our Commitment to Historic Preservation

The people of Berlin value the rural character of their Town as well as its history. The farmland, forests, wetlands, scenic vistas, and historic village centers all contribute to this shared appreciation. Therefore, progress in the community should be compatible with protecting these defining natural and historical features. The Town’s heritage includes significant buildings, artifacts, natural features that provide continuity with the past, enriching the community. The Community Preservation Plan recognizes that stewardship of historic and cultural resources serves and improves the quality of life for the people of Berlin. The Plan will help the Town to preserve its historic resources and safeguard its history for the future.

The Historical Commission has responsibility for historic preservation in the Town under state law, Massachusetts General Law Chapter 40, Section 8D. The five-member Commission is appointed for staggered terms by the Town Administrator with the approval of the Select Board. Historic Preservation Goals The goals for historic preservation include but are not limited to the following:

• Preserve, restore, and rehabilitate significant historical structures, sites, records, documents, and artifacts;

• Support possible reuse of buildings slated to be demolished;

• Work to certify that any historic project proposed to CPAC is locally significant; review and endorse historical proposals; ensure that all work on historic resources complies with the United States Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation;

• Support planning and preservation consultation to increase the Town’s capacity to protect and preserve its historic resources, buildings, other structures, and sites;

• Support and promote educational and recreational programs and activities that tell the stories of our historic structures and sites.