Do you ever go to a uniquely historical area to enjoy the scenery, history and culture of places that are unique to New England? It is heartbreaking to know of a really beautiful building that no longer exists.

The worst thing we can do to preserve our history is to make it obsolete. Every local city and town has a unique history and culture. Preserving that history is what a Local Historic District does. In fact, it is the only mechanism in Massachusetts to preserve historic buildings and structures. 

Ashland has signs that say “Ashland Historic District”, but there has never been an “official” Historic District inAshland. It is long overdue. Too many buildings have been lost and can never be recovered.

Local Historic Districts are one of the oldest and strongest protections for historic properties. They are a contiguous area or group of historic structures deemed significant to the town’s cultural fabric.

Ashland has a strong history of working culture which is represented in the local granite mills and manufacturing facilities. Within Ashland was the inventor of the Synchronous Motor & Warren Master Clock, Henry E. Warren. He was known as the father of accurate electric clocks. He standardized AC current that is still used today to regulate electricity all over the world. Henry Warren Invented the Synchronous motor at 433 Chestnut Street and later moved the Warren Clock Company into the mill at 10 Main Street.

What are the benefits of Local Historic Districts:

• Protection of significant buildings from demolition and inappropriate alteration (Facades only and only what can be seen from the street).

• Strongest form of protection for historic buildings and structures (The National Registry of Historic

• Places does not protect a historically significant building from demolition).

• Saves the unique character of the historic area.

• Allows for thoughtful consideration of change.

• Building facades remain part of the community while adapting for new uses.

• Instill pride and a sense of place within the community.

• Provides a visual sense of the past and peace of mind that the historic environment will remain.

• Increased educational opportunities within the community and for schoolchildren.

• Positive economic development.

• Historic built environment remains a viable part of the community.

• Promotes walkability, drawing interest from people to congregate in a charming village area with a combination of history, culture, and businesses (shops, restaurants, cafés and more). The community decides what’s best for its future.

• Protects the environment. There is no more sustainable house or building than an already existing building.

What a Local Historic District does not do:

• Does not prevent all changes from occurring.

• Does not halt growth.

• Does NOT make you have to ask for permission to sell your house!

• Does not discourage development.

• Does not impede progress or job growth.

• Does not discourage investment.

Fun Facts:

• Today there are more than 2300 Historic Districts in the United States.

• There are over 300 Historic Districts in Massachusetts.

• Historic Districts that are listed on the National Register of Places are honorary only.

Ashland’s Historical Commission spent the last two years working towards defining a Local Historic District in Ashland’s Downtown. They formed a Local Historic District Study Committee that created a Local Historic District Bylaw which will be on the May 2025 Ashland Town Warrant and will require a 2/3 vote for approval. Ashland’s Historical Commission is hoping for strong community support and showing to vote for approval of the Local Historic District Bylaw at Town Meeting. We hope to see you there!

Submitted by the Ashland Historical Commission