Historical Commission

The Hanover Historical Commission is the town's agency responsible for identifying, evaluating, and protecting the historical and archaeological assets within the town. It maintains an inventory of the town's historic assets and administers specific statutes that protect historic properties.

The Hanover Historical Commission was established in 1983 to oversee the preservation of our town's historic elements. The Select Board appoints five members, each serving a three-year term. The Commission is composed of an architect, a real estate person, a member of the Hanover Historical Society, and two members at large.

The Commission meets monthly and cooperates with the Planning Board, Building Inspector, Assessor, Historical Society, and other groups and individuals who might seek their advice. The Board suggests appropriate names for new subdivisions, reviews demolition permit applications submitted by the Building Inspector, and works to preserve the historic and pastoral character of this fine New England town.

The Commission administers Section 6-26 of the town's bylaws, "Preservation of Historically Significant Buildings," by reviewing demolition permit applications for structures older than 75 years. The Commission may determine that a structure is historically significant and is empowered to delay the demolition of significant buildings by up to one year while preservation alternatives are explored.