Amherst Historical Commission Introduces Barn Preservation Program

Funding Available to Help Owners Complete Historical Assessments

Source: amherstma.gov

The Town of Amherst Historical Commission has announced its new Barn Preservation Program, an initiative to protect the iconic and historically valuable barns that have been an integral part of the town’s rural landscape for generations. This program is designed to assist property owners in identifying resources for repair, restoration, and reuse, while also providing funding to facilitate historical assessments. 

“Barns represent the history of many people who were instrumental in making Amherst the community it is today,” said Jan Marquardt, former chair of the Historical Commission. “As farming techniques evolve and many traditional barns give way to modern development, these structures are quickly becoming cherished historical landmarks. Recently, some barns were falling into such disrepair that the Historical Commission had no choice but to allow them to be razed, officially called demolition by neglect.” 

To combat this trend, the Historical Commission is offering financial assistance to property owners through the Barn Preservation Program. The Commission will cover 50% of the cost, up to $500, for historical assessments. These assessments will examine the building’s structural integrity, offer estimates for needed repairs, and provide valuable insights into the materials used in its construction, as well as the functions and historical significance of the barns over the years. 

The Barn Preservation Program is supported by funds from the Community Preservation Act (CPA). In 2023, the Historical Commission received $10,000 in CPA funds to help owners of historic barns and outbuildings complete historical assessments to encourage preservation and reuse of these structures.  

Eligibility and Application
The Historical Commission encourages all property owners who have a barn or other outbuilding on their property to reach out and take advantage of this unique opportunity to preserve Amherst’s history.   

Qualifying buildings must be at least 75 years old, owned by an Amherst resident, and may include barns, garages, carriage houses, and other non-residential outbuildings. Interested property owners who have a qualifying building on their property can submit an application online or by mail. 

For more information about the Town of Amherst Barn Preservation Program, additional resources, and the application, please visit www.amherstma.gov/3824/Barn-Preservation or contact Planner Walker Powell by emailing powellw@amherstma.gov. 

Openings on the Historical Commission

The Town is currently seeking volunteers to serve on the Historical Commission Interested residents are encouraged to submit their applications online by Sunday, May 18.