The Massachusetts Historical Commission
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, Grants, and Technical Services Divisions.
The MHC is the office of the State Historic Preservation Officer, as well as the office of the State Archaeologist.
*(MGL Ch. 9 Sections 27-32 enabling legislation)
Commission Members
William Francis Galvin, Secretary of the Commonwealth; Chair, Massachusetts Historical Commission — Michael Maresco, Designee
MA Department of Conservation & Recreation — Patrice Kish, Designee
MA Department of Housing & Community Development — Cyrus Field, Designee
MA Department of Business & Technology — Jonathan Cosco, Designee
Museum of African American History — Vacant
Society of Architectural Historians (New England Chapter) — Dennis DeWitt
American Antiquarian Society — Barbara Levy
American Institute of Architects (Massachusetts Chapter) — James Crissman
Massachusetts Archaeological Society — Suanna Selby Crowley
Old Sturbridge Village — Caitlin Emery Avenia
The 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 — Dennis Fiori
Home Builders Association of Massachusetts — Michael McDowell
Governor’s Appointee — George Bell
Governor’s Appointee — Anne Pride