historic markers

As part of our ongoing strategic planning process, Charlestown Preservation Study has suspended our historic marker program for the present. There are several reasons behind this decision:

The price of the markers - which we sell at cost to homeowners - has risen steeply, making them less affordable in a time of economic uncertainty. Because of this the number of interested homeowners and the pace of marker applications have slowed.

As a result, it now takes about two years to assemble the minimum number of markers required by the foundry. This often causes frustration for marker applicants.

Our responsibility to present accurate information on the markers also means a heavy volunteer commitment, especially when house documentation is murky or nonexistent.

Over 140 of the handsome markers now grace neighborhood houses, and many more properties qualify. We'll evaluate the marker program thoroughly as part of our strategic planning process and hope to be able to resume it in the future.

Many thanks to homeowners who've expressed interest in the marker program! We'll keep you posted on our deliberations and on our final decision about the program.