Historical Commission

Town Meeting Information

• Information Meeting PowerPoint - September 2016 (PDF)
• Draft By-law for Preservation of Historically Significant Buildings 9- 30 -16 (PDF)
• FAQ's Chapter 14 By-law October 2016 (PDF)
• Board of Selectmen Speaking Points - April 2016 (PDF)
• Massachusetts Map Towns with Demo Delays - March 2016 (PDF)
• Demolition Community Conversation - June 2015 (PDF)

Agendas & Minutes

Agendas are available prior to the meetings. Minutes are available following approval.

View Most Recent Agendas and Minutes

About the Board

The Winchester Historical Commission, established under Massachusetts General Law Chapter 40 (section 8D), is composed of 7 members appointed by the Town Manager, and approved by the Board of Selectmen for 3-year terms.

Purpose

The mission of the commission is the preservation, protection, and development of our town's historical or archeological assets, and the establishment of protective measures of these assets for future generations.

Reference: Town Meeting, April 3, 1967, Article 47; M.G.L., Chapter 40 § 8D

Winchester Code of By-Laws

• Preservation of Historically Significant Buildings Bylaw, Chapter 14 (PDF)
• Town Demolition and Renovation Information and Guidance (PDF)
• Demolition Review Process (flow chart)

Related Links

• 2017 Winchester Survey Plan (PDF)
• Researching Properties in Winchester (PDF)
• Massachusetts Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credit
• Massachusetts Historical Commission
• Towns with Demolition Bylaws
• Top 10 Myths about Historic Preservation (PDF)
• Belmont Values Preservation (PDF)
• Economic Impacts of Historic Preservation in Massachusetts (PDF)
• Understanding National Register Districts and Local Historic Districts (PDF)
• The National Register of Historic Places: Effects and Benefits of Listing (PDF)
• What You Need to know about Listing on the National Register (PDF)
• Historic New England