May is National Preservation Month

Boston’s historic buildings and neighborhoods are being highlighted as the City marks National Preservation Month and celebrates five decades of its local landmarks agency. Councilors Durkan, Louijeune, and Pepén introduced a resolution recognizing May as National Preservation Month in the Landmarks Commission’s 50th year.

The resolution notes that Boston is one of America’s most historic cities, with a built environment reflecting key moments in U.S. history, including the Revolution, abolition, and immigration.

It references the establishment of National Preservation Week in 1972 by the National Trust for Historic Preservation, which was expanded to a month-long observance in 2005 to broaden opportunities to celebrate historic places and promote heritage tourism.

The resolution states that Boston is home to many historic sites that should be recognized, protected, and celebrated for their economic, social, cultural, and educational value to the City’s communities.

It highlights the Boston Landmarks Commission, established in 1975, which works to protect and enhance Boston’s historic and environmental character. The resolution notes that the Commission is marking its 50th anniversary this year and oversees more than 9,000 properties in coordination with the City’s historic district commissions, reviewing design changes, regulating demolition, and supporting preservation planning, including the creation of new landmarks and historic districts.

Last year the Commission landmarked seven new structures and reviewed more than 933 design review applications, representing approximately $723 million in investment.

Preservation plays a role not only in protecting the past but in shaping Boston’s future by guiding development and investment to support neighborhoods over time. The Council recognized May as National Preservation Month and reaffirmed its commitment to preserving Boston’s historic resources across all communities.