A program that would assist homeowners in creating a sign to denote the historic significance of their homes may now move forward after emerging from a subcommittee.
Councilor Devan M. Ferreira shared Tuesday several edits suggested by City Solicitor Lisa L. Mead, including removing language related to purchasing research assistance from the Historic Highlands Neighborhood Association as well as language related to sign procurement and pricing. She noted her excitement and reminded residents on how the program will work.
“One of the things I love about my neighborhood is walking by and checking out who lived where and what they were doing in the history of our city,” she said. “Looking at the wider range, I think our Queen Slipper is a unifying symbol of the city that could be used in many different neighborhoods and sections of the city for those who may want to get one of these signs for their own home. It is, of course, an optional program. If you buy a sign, it doesn’t mean your home is significantly deemed historic or has any kinds of protections or restrictions placed on it, it is just to denote the historic significance of your home.”
As only WHAV reported last month, city councilors voted to send the citywide historic signage program to the Council’s Administration and Finance Committee to iron out details.
Signs are approximately 15 inches by 22 inches and could include the name of a former occupant, their job, the year the home was constructed and neighborhood the home is occupied in. City ordinance does not require a permit for the type of sign proposed by the Historical Commission.
Those in homes that are 75 years old or older may email the information they have on their home to [email protected] with name, contact info, sign information and sources of research. The email address will be monitored by the Historic Highlands Neighborhood Association, which will double check information for accuracy and provide information for sign ordering.
Becky Geller, Haverhill Public Library’s head of special collections, told councilors the library has a number of resources to assist residents in researching their homes, including building survey data sheets, photographic surveys and city directories originating from 1858 and onward.
Those looking for help may visit the library during special collections hours on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.; Thursdays, from 3 to 7 p.m.; and monthly Saturday hours. The next Saturday hours are March 15 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
An open house will also be held on Friday, March 7, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.