About the Massachusetts Historical Commission (MHC)

The continuing presence of historic properties in Massachusetts immeasurably enhances the quality of our lives; they help to establish our sense of place and to define the very character of our communities. To meet the challenge of preserving this important heritage, the Massachusetts Historical Commission (MHC) was established by the legislature in 1963 to identify, evaluate, and protect important historical and archaeological assets of the Commonwealth.

The Commission consists of 17 members appointed from various disciplines who serve as the State Review Board for state and federal preservation programs. The Commission is Chaired by Secretary of the Commonwealth William Francis Galvin.

The professional staff of the Commission includes historians, architects, archaeologists, geographers, and preservation planners. The state's preservation programs are administered through MHC's Preservation Planning and Grants divisions.

The MHC is the office of the State Historic Preservation Officer, as well as the office of the State Archaeologist.

Commission Members

The Massachusetts Historical Commission consists of 17 members appointed from various disciplines. The Commission also serves as the State Review Board for state and federal preservation programs.

Secretary of the Commonwealth

William Francis Galvin, Chair Massachusetts Historical Commission
John Rosenberry, Designee

MA Department of Conservation & Recreation

Patrice Kish, Designee

MA Executive Office of Housing & Community Development

James McCurdy, Designee

MA Executive Office of Economic Development

Douglas Gutro, Designee

Museum of African American History

Kellie Carter Jackson

Society of Architectural Historians (New England Chapter)

Dennis DeWitt

American Antiquarian Society

Susan Ceccacci

American Institute of Architects (Massachusetts Chapter)

Edward Adelman

Massachusetts Archaeological Society

Ryan Wheeler

Old Sturbridge Village

Derek Heidemann

Trustees of Reservations

Mark Wilson

Society for the Preservation of New England Antiquities/Historic New England

Charles Sullivan

New England Historic Genealogical Society

Donald R. Friary

Massachusetts Historical Society

Heather Wilson

Home Builders Association of Massachusetts

Michael McDowell

Governor’s Appointee

Anne Pride

Governor’s Appointee

Vacant