HISTORIC RESOURCES MANAGEMENT PLAN
FOR THE
U.S. ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY'S
EDISON FACILITY
• •
I SB I
v!>
JULY 1992
Prepared by:
U.S. ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY - REGION II
NEW YORK, NEW YORK
With assistance from:
Gannett Fleming, Inc.
Harrisburg, Pennsylvania
In association with:
EcolSciences, Inc.
Rockaway, New Jersey
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HISTORIC RESOURCES MANAGEMENT PLAN
FOR THE
U. S. ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY'S EDISON FACILITY
FORMER RARITAN ARSENAL
EDISON TOWNSHIP
MIDDLESEX COUNTY, NEW JERSEY
TABLE OF CONTENTS
I. INTRODUCTION 1
A. Purpose 1
B. The Edison Facility 2
C. Prior Research 2
D. Consultations 3
E. Structure and Content 4
II. PRESERVATION RESPONSIBILITIES 5
A. Regulatory Summary 6
B. General Responsibilities 5
C. Historic Resources Identification Program 6
D. The Management Inventory 7
E. Early Planning 7
F. Utilization of Historic Resources 7
G. Cooperative Efforts 8
H. Recommendations 9
HI. THE NATIONAL REGISTER AND HISTORIC RESOURCES .. 10
A. The National Register of Historic Places 10
B. Criteria of Eligibility 10
C. Initial Statement of Significance 11
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IV. HISTORIC RESOURCES MANAGEMENT INVENTORY 15
A. Overview 15
B. Inventory of Documentary Sources 15
1. Summary of Sources 15
2. Recommendation 16
C. Inventory of Historic Resources 17
1. General 17
2. Archaeological Zones 18
a. Possible Prehistoric Site - Zone 3 18
b. Historical Sites - Zones 1-3 18
3. Zones of Buildings and. Structures 21
a. Arsenal Core - Zone 4 22
b. Fire Station - Zone 5 27
c. 1950's Warehouses - Zone 6 27
d. 1950's Warehouses - Zone 7 27
e. Firing Ranges - Zone 8 27
4. Elsewhere • - 27
5. Historic District 28
a. Principal Elements 28
b. Contributing Elements 31
c. Non-Contributing Elements 31
6. Recommendations 31
V. MANAGEMENT PRACTICES 32
A. Overview 32
B. Standard Practices 33
C. Activity-Specific Practices 34
D. Mitigating Unavoidable Adverse Impacts 38
1. Mitigating Impacts to Archaeological Sites 38
2. Mitigating Impacts to Buildings and Structures 40
VI. CONCLUSION 43
BIBLIOGRAPHY 44
APPENDICES 46
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LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 1, Historic Resources Zones page 19
Figure 2, Detailed Map of Zone 4 page 24
Figure 3, Historic District page 29
Figure 4, Management Practices - Archaeology page 36
Figure 5, Management Practices - Buildings and Structures . . page 39
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HISTORIC RESOURCES MANAGEMENT PLAN
FOR THE
U.S. ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY'S EDISON FACILITY
FORMER RARITAN ARSENAL
EDISON TOWNSHIP
MIDDLESEX COUNTY, NEW JERSEY
I. INTRODUCTION
A. Purpose
This document is a Historic Resources Management Plan (HRMP) for the United
States Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Edison Facility at the former
Raritan Arsenal in Edison Township, Middlesex County, New Jersey. The plan
was prepared as part of a program undertaken by EPA - Region II to ensure
compliance with federal legislation mandating responsibility for the management
and preservation of historic resources.
Section 110 of the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA) requires federal
agencies to assume responsibility for identifying, evaluating, registering, and
protecting historic resources on properties they own or control. Historic resources
are sites, buildings, structures, objects, and districts of historic, archaeological,
architectural, engineering, or cultural significance. Under Section 106 of the
NHPA, federal agencies are required to take into account the effect of any
proposed federal undertaking "on any district, site, building, structure, or object
that is included in or eligible for inclusion in" the National Register of Historic
Places (National Register).
The purpose of this management plan is to establish goals and objectives relating
to the protection of historic resources at the EPA's Edison Facility and to specify
courses of action to avoid adverse impacts on those resources. The development
of this management plan, and the cultural resource surveys incorporated in it, will
enable EPA to satisfy the requirements of both Section 110 and Section 106.
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Four interrelated subjects are addressed in this plan. They are, in order:
1. The EPA's responsibility under Sections 106 and 110 of the NHPA;
2. The criteria for identifying historic resources;
3. Known and possible historic resources at the Edison Facility; and
4. Management goals and procedures necessary to fulfill the responsibilities of
Sections 106 and 110 of the NHPA
B. The Edison Facility
The EPA Edison Facility is a 205-acre irregularly shaped parcel within the former
Raritan Arsenal. It is situated on Woodbridge Avenue, near the intersection with
the Old Post Road, and extends south and east away from those streets. It
contains both visible and buried vestiges of human activities.
The EPA property is a small portion of a larger military installation commissioned
in 1917 and closed in 1964. The size and configuration of the Arsenal changed
over time, but at its closure the base occupied approximately 3,200 acres. Military
land outside the EPA tract has since been transferred or sold to other
governmental agencies, private individuals or groups, and institutions.
Nine resource zones have been established for evaluating the EPA property.
Eight of these zones contain known or possible historic resources. A prehistoric
site may be present; archaeological sites dating to the nineteenth century may
exist; and buildings and structures from the Raritan Arsenal are present. Most of
these resources have been combined into a historic district.
C. Prior Research
Two studies were initiated and funded by EPA as part of the requirements of
Section 110 of the NHPA. Documentary research on prehistoric and historic
patterns of land use, a preliminary architectural assessment of buildings and
structures, and archaeological investigations have been completed (Kardas and
Larrabee, 1989; Kardas and Larrabee, 1990). A technical report on findings was
prepared for each study. These reports are the background for, and an integral
part of, this management plan. They are referred to throughout the plan, and
they are essential information for those who are implementing the plan.
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The first study, in 1989, was of a 110-acre portion of the EPA facility on which
construction of an Environmental Technology and Engineering Center (E-TEC)
was proposed. The purpose of the study was to determine whether any historic
resources would be impacted by constructing E-TEC, and to determine whether
any historic resources are located outside the construction area. The report
reviews literature pertinent to prehistoric occupation, discusses land use prior to
establishment of the Raritan Arsenal, and summarizes the Arsenal's history.
Cartographic records, documents, aerial photographs, and surface reconnaissance
guided the archaeological testing for selected areas (Kardas and Larrabee, 1989).
The second study, in 1990, focused on the 95 acres of the EPA facility outside the
E-TEC site, but also included more primary research on the entire tract. Its
purpose was to facilitate long-range land use planning and to provide information
for this historic resources management plan. The study provides a history of
Arsenal activities, land use, and standing buildings and structures. There is a
historical narrative, a photographic and cartographic record, a list of repositories
of information, an architectural assessment of buildings, and Office of New Jersey
Heritage Individual Structure Survey Forms. An archaeological investigation also
was completed (Kardas and Larrabee, 1990). All of the information is important
to implementation of the HRMP for the EPA facility.
D. Consultations
During the research program, and in the preparation of this document,
preservation professionals in New Jersey were consulted. Review comments and
consultation on procedural matters and statements of historical significance were
provided by the New Jersey State Historic Preservation Officer (NJSHPO)
through the Office of New Jersey Heritage. An archaeological site inventory was
prepared by the staff in the archaeology section of the New Jersey State Museum.
Consultation with the Office of New Jersey Heritage ensured an effort consistent
with historic resources standards in the state. Their architectural reporting forms
were used for the same reason. The New Jersey State Museum was consulted
concerning additional information about the project area.
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Future historic resources preservation efforts will be carried out in conjunction
with these offices. Among other things, they will be asked to serve as repositories
of historic preservation information.
E. Structure and Content
This management plan is divided into six sections. The Introduction and
Conclusion sections are self-explanatory. The second and third sections
summarize the responsibilities of federal agencies under the NHPA The fourth
and fifth sections contain the information necessary to fulfill those
responsibilities.
The second section states the responsibilities of EPA for management and
preservation of historic resources as defined by the Guidelines for Federal Agency
Responsibilities Under Section 110 of the NHPA (The Section 110 Guidelines; 53
Federal Register 4728), and discusses the manner in which EPA's responsibilities
under Section 106 will be discharged by the development of this management
plan. The third section sets forth the criteria of eligibility for inclusion in the
National Register. It provides the rationale for findings of eligibility and sets the
stage for preparing formal nominations. The fourth section is the Management
Inventory. It contains information on documentary sources and a description of
known and possible historic resources. Findings of eligibility are presented. The
fifth section outlines practices for decision-making in accordance with the
resource management and preservation requirements of this HRMP.
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H. PRESERVATION RESPONSIBILITIES
A. Regulatory Summary
The NHPA and its amendments establish standards and guidelines for historic
preservation in the United States. As noted earlier, Section 110 of the NHPA
requires that federal agencies assume responsibility for managing and preserving
historic resources under their control, while Section 106 requires agencies to take
into account the effects of their undertakings on historic resources. Compliance
with Section 106 requirements is achieved through use of 36 CFR Part 800, the
implementing regulations of the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation
(Advisory Council).
The term "historic resource" is applied to any prehistoric or historic district, site,
building, structure, or object included in, or eligible for inclusion in, the National
Register. The National Register is a listing of all historic resources significant in
American history, architecture, archaeology, engineering, and culture maintained
by the Secretary of the Interior. A historic resource can be significant at a local
or state level as well as at the national level. Criteria of eligibility for inclusion in
the National Register are defined in the NHPA (see Section HI).
B. General Responsibilities
Both Sections 106 and 110 of the NHPA deal with federal agency responsibilities,
and have overlapping requirements. Section 110 requires federal agencies to
assume responsibility for the preservation of historic resources that are owned or
controlled by them. Guidelines to Section 110 implementation set forth general
requirements for a preservation management plan (The Section 110 Guidelines,
53 FR 4728). A preservation management plan requires the following:
1. A Historic Resources Identification Program;
2. A Management Inventory;
3. Early planning;
4. Utilization of historic resources; and
5. Cooperative efforts.
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By fulfilling the Section 110 requirements for its property, a federal agency can
also develop the information and formulate the action that will help it to meet its
responsibilities under Section 106. These activities include identifying all historic
resources on its property, evaluating their significance, and determining the
effects of the proposed activities on the property. All these tasks are being
carried out in accordance with 36 CFR Part 800. This historic resources
management plan thus provides a mechanism for protecting historic resources as
far as possible, while carrying out the program associated with the property.
C. Historic Resources Identification Program
The Section 110 Guidelines require that a federal agency identify and evaluate
historic resources under its jurisdiction or control. Identification may require
research in historical documents, interviews with people familiar with a property,
architectural assessments, archaeological studies, and consultation with the State
Historic Preservation Officer's (SHPO) representatives. Evaluation according to
National Register criteria is carried out by a person qualified in one of the fields
of historic preservation.
The two studies completed for the EPA Edison Facility identified and evaluated
several types of historic resources and possible historic resources, as follows:
1. A possible prehistoric archaeological site
2. A possible historical archaeological site unrelated to the Raritan Arsenal
3. Historical archaeological sites related to the Raritan Arsenal
4. Buildings and structures from the Arsenal period
Identification of historic resources is a process that continues as an agency
engages in the activities required to fulfill its mission. The initial background
studies provide some information relating to the historic resources at the Edison
Facility, but there are many questions that remain. For example, the dates of
construction of several buildings have not been determined, and the survival of
both prehistoric and historical archaeological sites remains to be ascertained.
Ongoing activity to identify and evaluate resources is a part of the historic
resources preservation process.
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D. The Management Inventory
The Section 110 Guidelines require the creation and maintenance of a
Management Inventory. The Inventory has two parts; one is a listing of
documents relating to the historic resources, and the other is a listing of the
historic resources identified or possibly present. Maintenance of the Management
Inventoiy is an ongoing process and a m^jor preservation responsibility. The
initial Management Inventory, current to October 1990, is contained in Section IV.
E. Early Planning
Early planning is essential to a historic resources management plan. The Section
110 Guidelines require integration of a historic resources management inventory
with systems for overall property management, land use planning, and project
planning. The Management Inventory (Section IV) and the Management
Practices (Section V) are key tools to be used with these systems of property
management, and they are most effectively applied when land use projects are
first contemplated.
Early planning is required to ensure use and preservation of historic resources, to
identify conflicts between preservation and agency goals, and to determine where
information is insufficient and further study is required. Clearly, early planning is
dependent upon a well-maintained management inventory and the ongoing
process of information gathering.
Failure to consider historic resources early in the planning process can lead to
delays and extra costs in carrying out activities essential to an agency's mission.
For example, when plans for land use in an area containing known or potential
historic resources are developed without regard for these resources, lengthy
delays in approval for the plans may result due to the need for historic resources
evaluation or preservation planning, or total re-design of a project may be
necessary to protect a resource.
F. Utilization of Historic Resources
One of the best ways to preserve historic resources, especially buildings, is to use
them. For that reason, the Section 110 Guidelines require federal agencies to
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give thorough consideration to using historic resources instead of demolishing
them. Where historic resources are in active use, good management will ensure
that the activities continue, but without harm to the resource. Activities which
do not presently make use of historic resources should be evaluated to see if they
can be adapted to such uses. When new activities are planned, historic resources
must be considered as locations for them. The requirement to use historic
resources must be given consideration early in the planning process. Often,
re-use of historic buildings is cost-effective, and can be a preferred alternative to
demolition or the erection of new buildings.
G. Cooperative Efforts
The final general requirement under the Section 110 Guidelines is to seek
opportunities for cooperative efforts with other federal agencies, state and local
agencies, and the private sector in the preservation and use of historic resources.
Naturally, cooperation and consultation with the Advisory Council in the
development of the HRMP to meet the requirements of the NHPA has been
essential. Of equal importance is continuing consultation with, and guidance
from, the NJSHPO. The Office of New Jersey Heritage can provide guidance to
insure that preservation efforts are consistent with goals in the state, provide
assistance in matters of evaluation, and provide lists of professionals experienced
in preservation matters. A Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) that incorporates
this HRMP will provide the basis for ensuring that the Advisory Council's NHPA
concerns are met through consultation between EPA and the NJSHPO.
Consistent with the requirement to use historic resources, it may be feasible and
desirable to lease buildings to other agencies, under strict conditions of active use
and preservation. Allowing vacant buildings to deteriorate at a time when other
agencies may need space is contrary to the preservation mandate.
It also is feasible to meet the goals of preservation by involving local organizations
with an interest in historic resources. Publications on historic resources,
interpretive programs, and community involvement can result through
cooperation with colleges and universities, museums, and civic organizations. For
example, photographic recording of buildings might be accomplished in
conjunction with a local college photography program. As another example,
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interpretive programs designed to demonstrate the agency's concern for
preservation can be designed for veterans' organizations, thereby showing that
preservation is aimed at the lives and experiences of ordinary citizens while
perhaps eliciting important oral histoiy that can become part of the Management
Inventory.
H. Recommendations
The following recommendations are related to the general regulatory
requirements described above. They are a part of Section 110 compliance.
1. Designate a Facility Preservation Specialist and continue, as appropriate, the
process of information gathering.
2. Integrate research findings into the management plan as soon as they are
received.
3. Use the management plan early in the planning process.
4. Evaluate EPA's mission and activities to determine if historic resources can
be used in fulfilling the mission.
5. Evaluate vacant historic buildings and plan preservation efforts through active
use by EPA, or by leasing.
6. Coordinate preservation efforts with the NJSHPO.
7. Involve local groups and organizations and professional societies.
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in. THE NATIONAL REGISTER AND HISTORIC RESOURCES
A. The National Register of Historic Places
The identified historic resources and potential historic resources inventoried in
this management plan have been identified by preservation professionals in the
fields of history, anthropology, architectural history, and cultural geography. The
information developed in this inventory will be used to assist in determining if
these resources are eligible for inclusion in the National Register. Findings of
eligibility are based on the National Register's Criteria for Evaluation (36 CFR
60.4) and its Bulletin Number 15, "Guidelines for Applying the National Register
Criteria for Evaluation."
Three archaeological zones, five zones of historic buildings and structures, and
one zone where resources are not known to exist, have been identified. Six of the
nine zones have been combined into a single non-contiguous historic district.
Formal requests for a Determination of Eligibility for the historic resources, or
formal submittal of a National Register nomination, will be made in the future.
These requests and submittals will be directed to the Keeper of the National
Register, National Park Service, U.S. Department of Interior, Washington, D.C.
B. Criteria of Eligibility
To be eligible for inclusion in the National Register, the quality of significance in
American history, architecture, and the like must be present in buildings,
districts, sites, and objects that possess integrity of design, location, materials,
workmanship, feeling and association, and:
1. that are associated with events that have made a significant contribution to
the broad patterns of our history; or
2. that are associated with the lives of persons significant in our past; or
3. that embody the distinctive characteristics of a type, period, or method of
construction, or that represent the work of a master, or that possess high
artistic values, or that represent a significant and distinguishable entity whose
components may lack individual distinction; or
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4. that have yielded, or may be likely to yield, information important in
prehistory or history.
A building, structure, object, site, or district must be at least fifty years old to be
eligible. However, Section 110 guidelines specify that resources not meeting the
age criterion be identified and inventoried for future consideration if it appears
likely that they would otherwise be eligible.
C. Initial Statement of Significance
The narrative history of the EPA Edison Facility is included in the Stage I
historic resources survey, and contains information about pre-Raritan Arsenal
activities and about the Arsenal's construction, buildings, and missions. The
narrative is supplemented by an architectural assessment of buildings, examples
of available original design drawings of buildings, and a list of buildings and their
functions (Kardas and Larrabee 1989: Chapter II; 1990: 8-33, 40-42, Appendices C,
E, and I).
The historic resources identified from this information are a possible prehistoric
archaeological site, a possible historic archaeological site unrelated to the Arsenal,
two historic archaeological sites related to the Arsenal, thirty-two intact buildings
from the Arsenal, and remnants of other Arsenal buildings and structures.
A preliminary statement about the significance of the cultural resources can be
made using the background information and the Criteria of Eligibility. Criteria a,
c, and d are applicable, as follows:
• Criterion a: The Raritan Arsenal is associated with events that have made a
significant contribution to the broad patterns of our history.
• Criterion c: Buildings and structures of the Raritan Arsenal embody the
distinctive characteristics of a type, period, or method of construction that
represent a significant and distinguishable entity whose components may lack
individual distinction.
• Criterion d: Known and possible archaeological sites may be likely to yield
information important in prehistory and history.
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Remnants of the Raritan Arsenal represent the growth of the United States as a
world power. The buildings are strictly functional, utilitarian military industrial
buildings. Some, such as the Post Headquarters, present a typical institutional
style to accompany function, but most are work places in both substance and scale,
The buildings were erected between 1917 and 1953. Peak construction occurred
during World Wars I and II. The buildings constructed during this time period
were physically linked or intermixed to meet the demands of wartime production.
The administrative and working core of the Arsenal, still mostly present on the
Edison Facility, was a dynamic, vital place when it was operating under wartime
conditions. When the missions carried out here were transferred elsewhere and
the Arsenal was closed, the noise and activity that characterized the place
stopped, leaving an industrial landscape that some might consider mostly
abandoned, drab, quiet, and uninteresting.
Raritan Arsenal was authorized in 1917, shortly after the United States entered
World War I. It was built by Italian contract labors managed under a padrone
system. A construction camp composed of forty-five buildings housed, fed, and
maintained 1,570 workers. Troops were deployed to the Arsenal as quickly as
construction allowed. Administration buildings were erected to house the
command element, and the Commandant established residence in a renovated
nineteenth century farmhouse.
Large ammunition handling warehouses and vehicle assembly buildings were
constructed. Linked by rail to ammunition-producing facilities and vehicle
manufacturing plants in New Jersey, and by rail and the Raritan River to New
York Harbor, the Arsenal began to receive, assemble, store, and ship war material.
It became a busy, noisy, gritty, and dangerous military base. Trainloads of
ammunition and vehicles arriving and departing moved through the Arsenal daily.
Trucks, touring cars, and possibly tanks, were brought in convoys for inspection,
repair, painting, and shipment to Europe. Munitions arrived in bulk for crating,
storage, and shipment to the front.
When World War I ended, the Arsenal received shipments of material from both
domestic sources and Europe, and the mission changed to repair and stockpiling.
By 1922, however, only a token civilian and military work force was required.
Between World War I and World War II, there was little activity at the Arsenal.
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Temporary buildings, such as the construction camp, were demolished. There was
little new construction; it consisted mostly of landscaping and the installation of
water and sewer systems, carried out by a reduced work force.
Conditions changed in 1939, when World War II began in Europe. The civilian
labor force was increased, and several new administration buildings were
constructed in 1941. Once the United States entered the war, the Arsenal was
expanded and became the scene of increased activity devoted to the war effort.
The civilian labor force, working in shifts, reached 9,500 persons in 1942. At
times, it included such diverse groups as Italian prisoners of war and a Jamaican
labor battalion. Civilians and military personnel had to be kept on record, fed,
paid and transported, and health and sanitary conditions had to be maintained
continually for nearly five years. With space at a premium, new buildings were
connected to existing ones and fitted in where possible, with no regard for visual
harmony. The Arsenal was a workplace where thousands of workers toiled in
support of a national effort.
The handling and transport of ordnance and explosives was again the chief
function. The assembly plant was used for assembling, modifying, and testing
vehicles, small arms, and heavy guns. Range finders and other optical equipment
were tested and calibrated in a special shop. A Publication Section produced
technical manuals, consuming seventy tons of paper a week in the process.
Eighty-two miles of railroads and sixty miles of paved roads existed within the
Arsenal, bringing materials from outside and taking finished goods to docks for
shipment overseas. The variety and volume of goods moved became so great that
after 1943 it was not possible to maintain inventories.
When World War II ended, the mission of the Arsenal was completed. The labor
force was reduced, and only a few specialized ordnance units were assigned to the
base. Four large warehouses were built during the Korean War, but the Raritan
Arsenal was poorly located for an active role in a Pacific Ocean conflict. Missions
and units gradually were transferred to other military facilities, and the Arsenal
was phased out as an active installation. It was closed in 1964.
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The remaining buildings, including munitions warehouses, the assembly plant,
and the post headquarters, represent the efforts of a nation and its people in
times of war. They also recall New Jersey's industrial history. Archaeological
sites on the property contain or may contain information important to
understanding prehistory, people who occupied the land before the Raritan
Arsenal, and the history of the Raritan Arsenal.
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IV. HISTORIC RESOURCES MANAGEMENT INVENTORY
A. Overview
This section contains an initial Historic Resources Management Inventory, current
to October 1990, for the EPA Edison Facility. The information contained here is
selected and organized to comply with Section 110 requirements.
The Management Inventory is divided into two parts; documentary sources and
historic resources. The inventory of documentaiy sources is a summary of the
Kardas and Larrabee reports; recommendations for use of the inventory are made.
The inventory of historic resources is more detailed. The property is divided into
eight zones of known or possible historic resources. For each zone, there is a
description of the resources present and a discussion of the information available
about the resources. Next, seven of the zones are combined into a historic
district. Three maps display the resources, the zones, and the district. Finally,
recommendations for using and maintaining the inventory are made.
B. Inventory of Documentary Sources
1. Summary of Sources
There are two principal documents essential to this HRMP. Together, these
two documents provide background information for the plan. Each was
prepared for EPA-Region II. They are:
o Kardas, S, and E. Larrabee, "Stage IA Cultural Resources Survey,
Environmental Technology and Engineering Center Site, Office of
Research and Development, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency at
Raritan Arsenal, Edison Township, Middlesex County, N.J." Technical
document prepared for U.S. EPA, Region H, October 1989;
o Kardas, S, and E. Larrabee, "Stage I Cultural Resources Survey, U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency Property at Raritan Arsenal, Edison
Township, Middlesex County, N,JTechnical document prepared for U.S.
EPA, Region II, October 1990.
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The 1989 report was prepared as part of the environmental impact statement
for the proposed Environmental Technology and Engineering Center (E-TEC)
Site. It contains the results of documentary research on prehistoric and
historic period land use for approximately 110 acres of the current EPA
property, and includes an overview history of the entire Raritan Arsenal. In
addition, archaeological testing was undertaken in one area.
The 1990 report was background research required for compliance with
Section 110. The information in the 1989 report is here expanded both in
scope and detail. Particular attention is paid to known and possible cultural
resources. A preliminary architectural evaluation of buildings on the property
was undertaken, vising Office of New Jersey Heritage Individual Structure
Survey Forms. The results of archaeological testing are also presented.
The 1990 report also lists and describes sources of information concerning the
Raritan Arsenal in document repositories. These documents were used in
compiling the report because they provide direct information on cultural
resources. Others were examined, but not used because they are concerned
with subjects not relevant to the investigation. The documentary sources
listed and described (Kardas and Larrabee 1990) are as follows:
a. List of record centers and archives (Appendix A);
b. Sources for Raritan Arsenal History (pages 12-16);
c. Description of Raritan Arsenal records at selected record centers and
archives (Appendix A);
d. Samples of selected documents (Appendix C); and
e. Summary of sources used, by type (Bibliography),
2. Recommendation
It is recommended that the information contained in the documentary
sources listed above be entered into computerized data base files where it can
be referenced, retrieved, and updated as new sources are located.
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C. Inventory of Historic Resources
A total of nine zones have been identified. Eight of these zones contain known or
possible historic resources representing three eras. There is a possible prehistoric
site, a historic site predating the Raritan Arsenal, and buildings, structures, and
sites from the Arsenal.
1. General
The various zones are delineated on Figure 1. The portion of the property
outside the eight resource zones is shown as Zone 9 on the figure. That is to
indicate that all areas outside the historic resources zones have been
thoroughly investigated and found to contain no historic resources. The
zones are described briefly below. A discussion of each, by category, follows:
Zone 1: An archaeological zone containing the Commandant's Residence, a
farmhouse built in the nineteenth century or earlier.
Zone 2: A historic period archaeological zone possibly containing the remains
of a nineteenth century house and associated remains and deposits.
Zone 3: A historic period archaeological zone encompassing the Raritan
Arsenal construction camp. There may also be a prehistoric site
somewhere in this zone.
Zone 4: The working core of the Raritan Arsenal from 1918 to 1964.
Zone 5: Raritan Arsenal fire station, ca. 1941,
Zone 6: Warehouses constructed for the Arsenal in 1953.
Zone 7: Warehouses constructed for the Arsenal in 1953.
Zone 8: Firing range remnants, post-Korean War.
Zone 9: No historic resources.
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2. Archaeological Zones
a. Possible Prehistoric Site - Zone 3
There is no recorded prehistoric site on this property. However, one
bifurcate base projectile point was discovered mixed with rubble, in a
shovel test near the Commandant's Residence, Zone 1. Whether it had
been found and brought into the house, or came from a Native American
site, is unknown. Furthermore, the base of a sandstone stemmed
broadspear, a broken quartzite end scraper, and an unmodified chert
primary flake were also discovered on the surface in Zone 3. It is possible
that these artifacts come from a prehistoric site in this zone.
Whether the artifacts were deposited here in fill or were in place at this
location is a matter of conjecture. In any case, the zone has to be 0-
managed because remains of the Arsenal construction camp are present.
If any prehistoric materials are present, they would be protected as well.
b. Historic Sites - Zones 1-3
Zone 1: Commandant's Residence
Zone 1 is next to Woodbridge Avenue and adjacent to the Parade Ground,
It is the site of the Commandant's Residence. The building originally was
a farmhouse dating at least to 1876, and possibly earlier. On an 1876 map
of the area, the owner is shown as E.H. Tappan. It was renovated and
used as the Commandant's Residence from about 1919 until the closing of
the Arsenal in 1964. The building was demolished in 1979.
Archaeological testing was undertaken in this area in 1990 (Kardas and
Larrabee, 1990: 43-62). Shovel-excavated test pits were placed at 25 foot
intervals, and 326 artifacts were recovered, most of them structural
remnants from the demolition of the house. The remainder were
domestic artifacts. They have been catalogued by type and number, but
are not dated. No military artifacts were recovered. Artifacts were
distributed over an area larger than the Commandant's Residence,
showing that the site had been leveled and graded. Subtle surface
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contours reveal the size and shape of the building. Tests within the
building Bite proper encountered impenetrable rubble at 24 to 30 inches
below existing grade. Deeper excavation was not possible by shovel. This
indicates that most of what remains of the building is within the
foundation. Assuming a foundation originally extending six feet below
grade, it is possible that only the upper portion of the building's base was
demolished and graded. If this is the case, there may be artifacts relating
to the building's occupants and builders in the basement and in builder's
trenches around the foundation.
The name, "Tappan", appears in this location on an 1850 map, and the
E.H. Tappan residence is shown on the 1876 map (Kardas and Larrabee,
1990: 11, 14). If cultural deposits are present, it may be possible to date
the original building and to gain information important to understanding
the history of the property before the Arsenal. Archaeological evidence
may be the major avenue for furthering understanding of this historic
resource. In the course of background research, no photographs of the
building were discovered, and no information on the Tappan family was
obtained.
Zone 2: W. Compton House
Zone 2, a possible historic resource, is located on the north side of
Bonhamtown Road, at the intersection with Pershing Avenue. It is the
site of the W. Compton house. The Compton house first appears on the
1876 map (Kardas and Larrabee, 1990: 14). It may still have been
standing in 1939 (Kardas and Larrabee, 1989: 34).
Hie zone is covered with striped asphalt pavement, having served as a
vehicle parking area during later Arsenal operations.Some parts of this
zone have been disturbed. A live-inch gas and oil line, an eight-inch
water line, and both a 24- and a 36-inch storm drainage line are buried in
corridors within the zone (Kardas and Larrabee, 1990; Appendix D).
Damage to, or destruction of, portions of the Compton historic site is
likely. Whether deeply buried foundation remnants and associated
cultural materials are present is unknown. Until evidence is presented to
20
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the contrary, this zone is considered to have historic archaeological
potential.
Zone 3: Construction Carrro
This is the site of the Raritan Arsenal construction camp. Archaeological
testing in 1990 verified the presence of buried deposits and features
associated with this camp. The following documents relating to the camp
are presented in the Kardas and Larrabee 1990 report:
1. Construction map of 1919 (Figure 9, page 22)
2. Tabie of construction camp buildings (Figure 10, page 23)
3. Floor plan of construction camp office building (Figure 11, page 24)
4. Four photographs of buildings in the construction camp (Plate 1,
Appendix H)
No other details of the construction camp are ltnawn. No plans were
discovered, although the table of buildings indicates a substantial
compound for 1570 men. It was present in 1919 and demolished before
1939, quite possibly as early as 1922, when 71 buildings and structures
were demolished. The only subsequent use determined for the area was
warehousing and open storage. Two trenches across the site were
excavated in 1990. Two builder's trenches, two utility trenches, and a
roadbed were recorded during the testing. Artifacts relating to the
Arsenal were a machine gun brass cartridge, a construction chain, a
calibrated photographer's arrow, and bricks. Three prehistoric stone tools
were discovered on the surface in this area. Also within this zone is
Building 242, a small, mostly buried, valve house from 1943. Thus, there
also is a minor World War II component present.
3. Zones of Buildings and Structures
The remaining zones on Figure 1 contain buildings and structures relating to
the Raritan Arsenal. These features span the history of the Arsenal from
World War I to the closing of the facility in 1964. They are grouped into
zones for convenience of discussion, given the large number of features in
some areas, and because the different zones may require different
21
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management practices. However, the interrelationship among the zones is
apparent and is addressed in Subsection 4 (Historic District). The content of
each zone is described, background information available for the zone is
indicated, and the basis for evaluations is presented.
a. Arsenal Core - Zone 4
The significance of this zone derives from buildings and structures only,
because, based on the disturbance from construction in Zone 4, it is likely
that nothing other than random buried cultural materials is present. In
this, the largest of the historic resources zones, there are eight buildings
from World War I, three buildings from the between-wars period, thirteen
buildings from World War II, one post-World War II building, and seven
buildings of unknown dates from this period. Three other classes of
structures are also present in the zone.
Information on the buildings and structures comes from the 1990 Kardas
and Larrabee report. The historical narrative, maps, and photographs
provide background information. A preliminary architectural survey of
buildings and structures contained in that report provides additional
information (Kardas and Larrabee, 1990: 40-42, Appendix I).
Figure 2 is a detailed view of the zone. The color coding categorizes the
buildings by age. Building numbers are official numbers assigned after
World Warn.
22
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The following information on buildings is from a General Services
Administration (GSA) inventory list prepared in 1964 (Kardas and
Larrabee, 1990: Appendix E). There are omissions and possible dating
errors on the GSA list, so it has been supplemented by information from
other sources where possible.
World War I
Eight World War I buildings remain.
Building Date Constructed Function
11
1918
Switching Station
14
1918
Assembly Plant
19A
1918
Assembly Plant
202
1918
Controlled Humidity Warehouse
203
1918
Controlled Humidity Warehouse
207
1918
Office
209
1918
Warehouse
212
1918
Controlled Humidity Warehouse
The Interwar Years
Three buildings were constructed in this period; while seventy-one were
demolished.
Building Date Constructed Function
16 1938 Latrine
17 1921 Administration
19B 1934 Lunch Room
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¥
WOOD BRIDGE
LEGEND
¦ Zone 4 Boundary
¦
World War 1 Period
¦
Interwar Period
¦
Wor1d War 11 Period
Date Unknown
EPA EDISON FACILITY
EDISON, NEW JERSEY
FIGURE 2
DETAILED VIEW OF ZONE 4
600
SCALE IN FEET
U.S. ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
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World War II
This was the period of peak activity and maximum expansion of the
Raritan Arsenal. Many of the World War II buildings were attached to
earlier buildings.
Building Date Constructed Function
5
1941
Telephone Exchange
10
1941
Post Headquarters
15A
1944
Heavy Gun Shop
15B
unknown
Instrument Shop
15C
unknown
Unknown
22
1941
Upholstery Shop
25
1941
Administration
200
1942
Office
206
1943
General Storehouse
208
1944
General Storehouse
210
1944
General Storehouse
238
1941
Mechanical Equipment
239
unknown
Pump Island
Post-World
War II
Building
Date Constructed Function
15D
1946
Machine Shop
Buildings of Unknown Date
Seven buildings cannot be dated. The General Services Administration
list gives no date or a building appears on maps or aerial photographs at a
date earlier than the one on the list. It is possible that new buildings
replaced older buildings in the same location, and thus appear to be the
same on aerial photographs but were in fact constructed as dated.
However, the list dates the Commandant's Residence (Building 1), and
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standing in 1964, as having been constructed in 1945, which does not
match the facts. This is a subject needing further research.
Listed
Earliest
Buildine
Date
Date Known
Function
12
1951
1947 aerial photo
General Storehouse
18
none
1939 aerial photo
Optical Tower
205
1942
1939 aerial photo
Warehouse
234
1941
1939 aerial photo
Heating Plant
235
1941
1961 aerial photo
General Storehouse
240
none
1939 aerial photo
Weigh Station
241
1953
1947 aerial photo
Motor Repair Shop
Other Structures
Three other classes of structures exist within Zone 4. These are (1)
remnants of demolished buildings, (2) remnants of transportation
systems, and (3) the Parade Ground. Remnants of demolished buildings
include Building 23, a 1942 general storehouse; Building 26, a sentiy
station listed as built in 1942 but appearing on a 1939 aerial photograph;
Building 201, a general storehouse listed as built in 1943, but shown on a
1923 map and a 1939 aerial photograph; Building 204, a 1918 warehouse;
Building 211, a 1918 controlled humidity warehouse; Building 231, a 1941
chemistry lab; Building 236, a 1943 office; and Building 237, a 1943 mess
hall (Figure 2). Two types of remnants from the Arsenal's internal
transportation system are present: the roads, and the railroad tracks and
loading bays. The Parade Ground retains some of the contours of the
driveway associated with the Commandant's Residence, as well as a
flagpole that was part of a large V-shaped formation of flagpoles. Portions
of a brick walkway to the Commandant's Residence and remainders of
cannon mounts also are present.
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b. Fire Station - Zone 5
The fire station (Building 228) is in a small parcel owned by EPA but
separated from the main property. It is a two-story brick structure with
gable roof and a bell and siren tower.
c. 1950s Warehouses - Zone 6
Buildings 255 and 256 are 1220 foot long by 200 foot wide warehouses
built around 1953. Along with Buildings 245 and 246, these are the
newest and largest Arsenal-era buildings on the property.
d. 1950s Warehouses - Zone 7
Buildings 245 and 246 are controlled-humidity warehouses built around
1953. They are comparable in scale to Buildings 255 and 256. Along with
Buildings 255 and 256, these are the newest and largest Arsenal-era
buildings on the property. Also in this zone is a structure, Building 227,
a water storage tank from 1941.
e. Firing Ranges - Zone 8
There are two firing ranges. Near Building 246 is a pistol firing range
with a thirty-six foot long covered firing platform with elbow bench, a
target building, iron range marker frames, and wires for supporting
targets. It was constructed after 1951. There is a small arms range that
has the remains of a firing shelter, a wood chip pathway, a scoring tower,
and a sunken iron box with lifting handles. It is southeast of the pistol
range, and was constructed after 1961. Both ranges are located in a
pre-Arsenal sand or clay pit.
4. Elsewhere
The portions of the EPA property outside Zones 1-8, collectively referred to as
Zone 9. contain no identifiable historic resources. This conclusion is based on
documentary research, surface inspection, and archaeological testing.
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5. Historic District
Because most of the historic resources at the Edison Facility are from the
Raritan Arsenal, seven of the zones have been combined into the Raritan
Arsenal Historic District (Figure 3). This District has been characterized and
listed by the New Jersey State Museum as No. 28-MI-162. The Raritan
Arsenal Historic District contains all of the historic zones except Zone 2,
which may contain archaeological resources unrelated to the Raritan Arsenal.
A historic district is a geographically defined area with a significant
concentration of sites, buildings, and structures united by past events (a
district can be made up of non-contiguous areas). Elements within a district
do not have to be of equal significance. Some may be individually eligible for
the National Register, while others may derive their importance only through
association with the district.
Elements can be divided into the three following categories: Principal,
Contributing, and Non-contributing.
a. Principal Elements
Most of the historic resources identified are considered principal
elements of the historic district. They are the resources considered likely
to be accepted as part of a National Register of Historic Places district.
Preservation planning requires that these elements be protected. At this
time not all of the resources listed here meet the 50-year age guidelines.
Not all of the buildings are structurally sound and suitable for re-use.
Some may be contaminated. Additional information concerning these
resources will be developed. The following are the principal elements of
the district:
o Archaeological Zones (Zones 1 and 3)
o Parade Ground
o Railroad Bays between Warehouses
o Foundations of Buildings 201, 204, and 211
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o World War I Buildings:
11
Switching Station
14
Assembly Plant
19A
Assembly Plant
202
Controlled Humidity Warehouse
203
Controlled Humidity Warehouse
207
Office
209
Warehouse
212
Controlled Humidity Warehouse
o Buildings through World War II:
5
Telephone Exchange
10
Post Headquarters
15A
Heavy Gun Shop
15B
Instrument Shop
15C
Unknown
15D
Machine Shop
16
Latrine
17
Administration
19B
Lunch Room
22
Upholster,' Shop
25
Administration
200
Office
206
General Storehouse
208
General Storehouse
210
General Storehouse
238
Mechanical Equipment
239
Pump Island
o Buildings of Unknown Date:
12
General Storehouse
18
Optical Tower
205
Warehouse
234
Heating Plant
235
General Storehouse
240
Weigh Station
241
Motor Repair Shop
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b. Contributing Elements - The following are considered contributing
historic resources:
o Firing Ranges
o Korean War Buildings:
245
246
255
256
Controlled Humidity Warehouse
Controlled Humidity Warehouse
General Storehouse
General Warehouse
c. Non-Contributing Elements - These elements lack individual distinction,
make no visual contribution to the district, and are unlikely to be sources
of information concerning significant past events:
o Concrete pad foundations of Buildings 24, 231, 236, and 237
o Roadways other than those in the parade ground
o Railbeds beyond the warehouse bays
6. Recommendations
To make best use of the material in the historic resources inventory, it is
recommended that separate files be established for each of the zones, and
that subfiles be created for the many resources within Zone 4. Each file
should contain the name(s) of the resource(s), type of resource (site, building,
structure), information available from the document inventory, level of
research effort completed, an area for structural assessment of buildings, an
area for data on contamination, and a section for further research required.
All files should be cross-referenced to the historic district with a notation that
identifies it as a principal, contributing, or non-contributing element.
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V. MANAGEMENT PRACTICES
A. Overview
This section outlines management practices to satisfy the requirements for
preservation of historic resources. These practices are derived from the
regulatory requirements discussed in Section II and the needs and
recommendations contained in the Management Inventory, and are discussed in
the three subsections which follow.
The first subsection pertains to Standard Practices that are ongoing whether or
not an activity involving historic resources is contemplated, while the second
subsection pertains to Activity-Specific Practices necessary when specific actions
are proposed by an agency on its property. The third subsection provides an
overview of the process of developing mitigation plans for the various types of
resources. In all situations, implementation of these management practices will
be overseen by the Regional Preservation Officer (RPO). Decisions regarding
specific activities at the facility will be the result of coordination between the
facility managers and the RPO and his staff, as well as consultation between the
RPO and the NJSHPO. The authority to determine the effects of proposed
activities on historic resources at the facility will remain with the RPO, subject to
all requirements of the MOA.
The overall development and maintenance of the physical plant of the Edison
Facility is the subject of a master plan currently being prepared by EPA. This
historic resources management plan will be incorporated into the master plan for
the facility by references in key sections, and by meetings between the facility
managers and the RPO's staff to provide a step-by-step interpretation of the
practices discussed below. These meetings will also include discussions of the
need for consulting with the NJSHPO and the process of nominating the site for
inclusion in the National Register.
Consultation with the NJSHPO will be carried out by the RPO's staff in regard to
both Standard Practices and Activity-Specific Practices, as discussed in the
following subsections. All consultation will be carried out as provided for in the
MOA.
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B. Standard Practices
Because the management of historic resources is a continuing process of
information gathering and decision making, some management practices are
aimed at ensuring that the activity continues smoothly. Listed below are a
number of standard practices associated with the implementation and ongoing
refinement of this HRMP.
1. Develop a large base map that accurately depicts and locates the historic
resources, zones, and district.
2. Establish and maintain flies on documentary sources. Develop a
cross-reference system to facilitate easy access to types of documents such as
photographs, maps, drawings, and official records.
3. Establish and maintain files on the historic resources that have been
inventoried. The best system will include separate files for each of the zones,
and subfiles for the resources within Zone 4. Each file should contain the
name(s) of the resource(s), type of resource {site, building, structure),
information available from the document inventory, level of research effort
completed, an area for structural assessment of buildings, an area for data on
contamination, and a section for further research required. All files should be
cross-referenced to the historic district with a notation that identifies it as a
principal, contributing, or non-contributing element.
4. Upgrade all files as new material is received.
5. Prepare a nomination to the National Register.
6. Use the HRMP as a guide to requirements and the files as a working tool at
the start of any plan involving historic resources.
7. Continually evaluate agency mission activities and the possibility of siting
them in historic buildings. Re-use of historic buildings is the best
preservation.
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8.
Consider alternative uses for vacant historic buildings, including lease
arrangements with other public agencies or with private parties.
9. Seek assistance from the NJSHPO for guidance concerning modifications and
uses of historic buildings. EPA will apply the Secretary of the Interior's
Standards for Rehabilitation and Guidelines for Rehabilitating Historic
Buildings (Appendix A) to historic building modifications proposed at the
facility.
10. Make available to the public the results of any additional research on the
historic resources and encourage public participation in their preservation.
C. Activity-Specific Practices
Specific actions proposed by the agency are not always detrimental to historic
resources. Use maintains and preserves buildings. On the other hand, some
resources, particularly archaeological sites, are fragile and easily destroyed.
The key to selecting the appropriate management practice is adherence to the
standard practice of re-using historic resources and to avoiding adverse impacts.
When an agency action is contemplated, one of the first planning steps is review
of the historic resources inventory and maps, as follows:
1. Evaluate the location of the proposed activity:
a. If the activity is outside the zones of historic resources and requires no
new construction, there will be no impact;
b. If the activity is outside the zones of historic resources and requires new
construction, determine if an existing historic resource can be re-used
and meet agency mission requirements. If the new activity can be located
in historic resource, request guidance from the NJSHPO on
modifications;
c. If the proposed activity is within a zone of historic resources and involves
excavation in an archaeological zone, demolition of a building or
34
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structure, or substantial alterations to a building, refer to the
management inventory and select a course of action appropriate to the
type of resource.
2. Refer to the Management Inventory. Determine if sufficient information
concerning the resource that will be affected exists. This includes not only
historical data, but data on current condition, contamination levels, and other
factors which may encourage or preclude re-use. If sufficient information is
not available, initiate research and enter the results in the Management
Inventory.
3. Continue the evaluation by type of resource.
As shown in Figures 4 and 5, respectively, the management practices for
archaeological sites and for buildings and structures differ somewhat. They are
outlined below.
Management Practices for Archaeological Sites
Archaeological sites are fragile, non-renewable resources that are important as
sources of information about past people and their culture that are not available
in the written historical record. Management practices are listed in order of
preference.
1. If an activity is proposed for a known or possible archaeological site, another
location should be selected.
2. If the site area is demonstrably the only feasible location, after a thorough
review of alternatives, and consultation with and concurrence from the
NJSHPO:
• Initiate an archaeological study to determine the extent, composition,
cultural affiliation, and research value of the site. Enter the results in the
Management Inventory and consult with the NJSHPO;
35
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FIGURE 4
Management Practices - Archaeology
SHPO
ACCEPTANCE
I r
36
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• Attempt to minimize or reduce the extent of impact. If possible, limit
disturbance to those portions of the site zone shown to be free of buried
cultural materials;
• For unavoidable adverse impacts, develop and execute a mitigation
program. This must be done through coordination with the NJSHPO and,
for a National Register site, the Advisory Council.
Management Practices for Buildings and Structures
On this property, most activities are likely to involve buildings and structures.
1. If new construction is contemplated outside a historic resources zone:
• Determine if Agency requirements could be met by using an existing
historic building;
• If use of a historic building is feasible, follow requirements for re-use of a
historic building.
2. If an activity is planned for a historic building or structure:
• Consult with preservation officials;
• Preserve the character-giving features of the building or structure to the
greatest extent practical;
• If modifications to a building or structure are required, reduce impacts by
using appropriate materials and architectural elements;
• Enter changes in the Management Inventory.
37
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3. If demolition is proposed in order to construct a new building:
• Determine if plans can be adapted to the existing building;
• Determine if requirements could be met by using an existing historic
building. If a building of appropriate size, with proper access and security,
is available, refer to the Management Inventory. Gather new information
as required, enter it into the Inventory, and consider the building as an
alternative. Consult with the NJSHPO for standards on building
modifications;
• If no existing building is an alternative to the proposed activity, move the
activity to a location having no historic resources;
• If there is no alternative to demolition or substantial alteration, determine
the level of significance from the Management Inventory and develop a
mitigation plan in conjunction with the NJSHPO and the Advisory Council.
D. Mitigating Unavoidable Adverse Impacts
There are several methods of mitigating unavoidable adverse impacts on historic
resources. Some are simple and inexpensive, such as ensuring that replacement
windows or doors are compatible with a building's style. Others are complex and
costly. A mitigation plan begins in consultation with the NJSHPO and
preservation professionals. An approval process, which includes consultation with
the Advisory Council, must be followed when developing a mitigation plan
involving a National Register resource.
1. Mitigating Impacts to Archaeological Sites
Mitigation of unavoidable adverse impacts to an archaeological site usually
involves excavation, which destroys the site scientifically in order to extract
the information it contains. Mitigation may range from sampling to complete
excavation. When an archaeological mitigation plan is approved, the following
practices are required:
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FIGURE 5
Management Practices - Buildings and Structures
39
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a. Select a consultant specializing in the type of archaeological site present,
and ensure that the consultant meets the minimum professional
standards established by the Secretary of the Interior. The NJSHPO can
provide lists of qualified consultants and guidance in the selection
process;
b. Make arrangements, as part of the work contract, for analysis and
curation of artifacts;
c. Provide copies of all professional reports to the NJSHPO for their
comment, and to other repositories as directed by the NJSHPO, and add
reports to the Management Inventory;
d. Implement publication and public programs, when possible, to interpret
and display the results of the agency's preservation program.
2. Mitigating Impacts to Buildings and Structures
Mitigation of adverse impacts on buildings and structures may range from use
of architectural elements compatible with the building through simple
photographic recording to total recording. EPA will apply the Secretary of
the Interior's Standards and Guidelines for Architectural and Engineering
Documentation. These are also known as the Historic American Buildings
Survey (HABS) and the Historic American Engineering Record (HAER)
standards, (Appendix B).
a. Alterations in such elements as windows, doors, roofing, porches, and the
like must be consistent with the style, age, and materials of the building.
The NJSHPO should be consulted for standards.
b. When alterations that will change the integrity, character, and style of a
building cannot be avoided, measured drawings, photographs, or some
combination of recording methods may be satisfactory. Requirements and
standards are available from the NJSHPO. All records created go into
the management inventory.
40
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o For simple recording programs, consider using students in
architecture or photography programs, providing they are
professionally supervised, and the results are reviewed by, and
acceptable to, the NJSHPO before alterations occur;
o If professional consultants are retained, ensure they meet the
standards set by the Secretary of the Interior for architectural
historians, and that recording skills are demonstrated.
c. If demolition of a building or structure must occur, its level of
significance can be determined from the Management Inventory, and the
correct actions can be taken:
For a Principal Historic Resource:
o Consult with the NJSHPO to determine the appropriate level of
recording;
o Ensure that the professional preservation, consultant is qualified to
prepare documentation in conformance with the HABS/HAER
standards;
o Distribute all documentation to appropriate repositories as directed
by the NJSHPO, and add the records to the Management Inventory.
For a Contributing Historic Resource:
o Consult with the NJSHPO to determine the appropriate level of
recording;
o Select a consultant with proper credentials. For many measured
drawings and photographs, it may be possible to coordinate with local
college or university programs;
o Submit documentation to necessary repositories and add the
information to the Management Inventory.
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For a Non-Contributing Resource:
o Locate and map the resource, using professional surveyors;
o Make a photographic record and add all of the information to the
Management Inventory.
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VI. CONCLUSION
The EPA Edison Facility contains historic resources. There are three known or
possible archaeological sites and thirty-one buildings that have been identified. Some
of the buildings present are in active use; many are vacant. Of those that are vacant,
some are in poor condition, and others may be chemically contaminated. Many appear
to be in good condition and suitable for re-use.
Management of those resources by federal agencies in a manner consistent with the
requirements for preservation is a complex task. Accordingly, this HRMP provides
regulatory requirements relating to EPA's responsibilities for historic preservation, a
synopsis of the research conducted to date on the property, an inventory of resources,
and management practices necessary for a preservation program.
This document should be viewed as the beginning of a management process. Working
files for the inventories need to be set up, and a large base map should be prepared.
Using the management plan as a guide, the files and the map will become elements
for preservation. They will contain the data base and incorporate new information as
it is received.
The information in the files and on the map will form the basis for the selection of
correct management practices in the future. The background documents, the
management plan, and the working files are a tool for fulfilling responsibilities
required under federal law. In cooperation with preservation professionals, these
responsibilities can be met if the tools are used early and often in the planning
process as EPA continues to fulfill its mission on this property.
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BIBLIOGRAPHY
Background Studies
o Kardas, S, and E. Larrabee, "Stage IA Cultural Resources Survey, Environmental
Technology and Engineering Center Site, Office of Research and Development, U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency at Raritan Arsenal, Edison Township, Middlesex
County, N.J." Technical document prepared for EPA-Region II, October 1989.
o Kardas, S, and E. Larrabee, "Stage I Cultural Resources Survey, U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency Property at Raritan Arsenal, Edison Township, Middlesex County,
N.J." Technical document prepared for EPA-Region II, October 1990.
Federal Preservation Manuals and Publications
The following Federal manuals and publications provide detailed information on regulatory
requirements and preservation practices. A reference library of these documents should
be established by EPA The name of the document is given first, with a brief description
if appropriate. A source for the document is given last,
Much of the information has been published in the Federal Register (FR); when listings
are available in this source, a standard citation is provided. If a listing is not known to be
published in the Federal Register, a source is given, if available,
o Preservation Standards
Secretary of the Interior's Standards and Guidelines for Archaeology and Historic
Preservation. These standards and guidelines are the basis for management activities.
The entire set of standards and guidelines is published at 48 FR 44716.
The following are pertinent subsections of the above:
• The Secretary of the Interior's Standards and Guidelines for Historical
Documentation (48 FR 44728);
• The Secretary of the Interior's Standards and Guidelines for Architectural and
Engineering Documentation (48 FR 44730);
• The Secretary of the Interior's Standards and Guidelines for Archaeological
Documentation (48 FR 44734);
• The Secretary of the Interior's Standards and Guidelines for Archaeology and
Historic Preservation, Professional Qualifications Standards (48 FR 44738).
• The Section 110 Guidelines: Guidelines for Federal Agency Responsibility Under
Section 110 of the NHPA (53 FR 4728).
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o Technical Guidance
• Curation of Federally Owned and Administered Archaeological Collections (52 FR
32740).
• Manual of Mitigation Measures. Available from Advisory Council on Historic
Preservation, Old Post Office Building, 1100 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Suite 809,
Washington, D.C. 20004.
• National Register Bulletin Number 15, "Guidelines for Applying the National
Register Criteria for Evaluation." Available from Interagency Resources Division,
National Park Service, United States Department of the Interior, PO Box 37127,
Washington, DC 20013-7127.
• National Register Bulletin Number 16, "Guidelines for Completing National
Register Forms." Available from Interagency Resources Division, National Park
Service, United States Department of the Interior, PO Box 37127, Washington, DC
20013-7127.
• National Register Bulletin Number 24, "Guidelines for Local Surveys." Available
from Interagency Resources Division, National Park Service, United States
Department of the Interior, PO Box 37127, Washington, DC 20013-7127.
• National Register Bulletin Number 25, "Directory of Technical Assistance."
Available from Interagency Resources Division, National Park Service, United
States Department of the Interior, PO Box 37127, Washington, DC 20013-7127.
• Preparing Agreement Documents. Suggested mitigation measures. Available from
Advisory Council on Historic Preservation, Old Post Office Building, 1100
Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Suite 809, Washington, DC 20004.
• Preservation Briefs. A series of publications explaining recommended methods and
approaches for rehabilitating historic buildings. Included are "Technical Reports,"
Preservation Case Studies," and "Preservation Tech Notes." A catalog listing Briefs
and Government Printing Office stock numbers is available from the Preservation
Assistance Division of the National Park Service.
• Protection of Historic Properties, 36 CFR Part 800. Available from Advisory
Council on Historic Preservation, Old Post Office Building, 1100 Pennsylvania
Avenue NW, Suite 809, Washington, DC 20004.
• Section 106 Step by Step. Available from Advisory Council on HistoricPreservation
Old Post Office Building, 1100 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Suite 809, Washington,
DC 20004.
• Treatment of Archaeological Properties. Available from Advisory Council on
Historic Preservation, Old Post Office Building, 1100 Pennsylvania Avenue N.W.,
Suite 809, Washington, DC 20004.
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APPENDICES
46
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APPENDIX A
SECRETARY OF THE INTERIOR'S
STANDARDS FOR REHABILITATION
AND GUIDELINES FOR
REHABILITATING HISTORIC BUILDINGS
A-l
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The Secretary of the Interior's
Standards for
Rehabilitation
and Guidelines for
Rehabilitating Historic Buildings
U.S. Department of the Interior
National Park Service
Preservation Assistance Division
Washington, D.C.
For (tie by the Superintendent of Document*, U.S. Government Printing Office
Wuhington, D.O. 20402
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The Secretary of the Interior's Standards for Historic Preservation
Projects with Guidelines for Applying the Standards were initially writ-
ten in 1976 by W. Brown Morton III and Gary L. Hume. The Guidelines
for Rehabilitating Historic Buildings were revised and expanded in 1983
by Gary L. Hume and Kay D. Weeks. The Standards for Rehabilitation
were revised in 1990 following a public commenting period. It should be
noted that the minor revisions to the Standards for Rehabilitation will
not affect their application so that a project which was previously ac-
ceptable would continue to be acceptable.
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Contents
Introduction to the Standards and Guidelines 5
BUILDING EXTERIOR
Masonry: Brick, stone, terra-cotta, concrete, adobe, stucco, and mortar
Preservation of Historic Features (maintenance, repair, replacement) 12
Design for Missing Historic Features 15
Wood: Clapboard, weatherboard, shingles, and other wooden siding and decorative elements
Preservation of Historic Features (maintenance, repair, replacement) 16
Design for Missing Historic Features 18
Architectural Metals: Cast iron, steel, pressed tin, copper, aluminum, and zinc
Preservation of Historic Features (maintenance, repair, replacement) 19
Design for Missing Historic Features 21
Roojs
Preservation of Historic Features (maintenance, repair, replacement) 22
Design for Missing Historic Features 23
Additions/Alterations for the New Use 24
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Windows
Preservation of Historic Features (maintenance, repair, replacement) 25
Design for Missing Historic Features 26
Additions/Alterations for the New Use 27
Entrances and Porches
Preservation of Historic Features (maintenance, repair, replacement) 28
Design for Missing Historic Features 29
Additions/Alterations for the New Use 29
Storefronts
Preservation of Historic Features (maintenance, repair, replacement) 31
Design for Missing Historic Features 33
BUILDING INTERIOR
Structural Systems
Preservation of Historic Features (maintenance, repair, replacement) 34
Alterations/Additions for the New Use 36
Interior Spaces, Features, and Finishes
Preservation of Historic Spaces, Features, and Finishes (maintenance, repair, replacement) 37
Design for Missing Historic Features and Finishes 40
Alterations/Additions for the New Use 41
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Mechanical Systems
Preservation of Historic Features (maintenance, repair, replacement) 43
Alterations/Additions for the New Use 44
BUILDING SITE
Preservation of Historic Features (maintenance, repair, replacement) 45
Design for Missing Historic Features 48
Alterations/Additions for the New Use 48
DISTRICT/NEIGHBORHOOD
Preservation of Historic Features (maintenance, repair, replacement) 49
Design for Missing Historic Features 51
Alterations/Additions for the New Use 51
HEALTH AND SAFETY CODE REQUIREMENTS 53
ENERGY RETROFITTING 55
NEW ADDITIONS TO HISTORIC BUILDINGS 58
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INTRODUCTION
The Secretary of the Interior is responsible for establishing standards for all program under Departmental authority and for advising Federal agencies on
the preservation of historic properties listed or eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places. In partial fulfillment of this responsibility,
the Secretary of the Interior's Standards for Historic Preservation Projects have been developed to guide work undertaken on historic buildings—there
are separate standards for acquisition, protection, stabilization, preservation, rehabilitation, restoration, and reconstruction. The Standards for
Rehabilitation (codified in 36 CFR 67) comprise that section of the overall preservation project standards and addresses the most prevalent treatment.
"Rehabilitation" is defined as "the process of returning a property to a state of utility, through repair or alteration, which makes possible an efficient
contemporary use while preserving those portions and features of the property which are significant to its historic, architectural, and cultural values."
Initially developed by the Secretary of the Interior to determine the appropriateness of proposed project work on registered properties within the Historic
Preservation Fund grant-in-aid program, the Standards for Rehabilitation have been widely used over the years—particularly to determine if a rehabili-
tation qualifies as a Certified Rehabilitation for Federal tax purposes. In addition, the Standards have guided Federal agencies in carrying out their
historic preservation responsibilities for properties in Federal ownership or control; and State and local officials in reviewing both Federal and nonfederal
rehabilitation proposals. They have also been adopted by historic district and planning commissions across the country.
The intent of the Standards is to assist the long-term preservation of a property's significance through the preservation of historic materials and features.
The Standards pertain to historic buildings of all materials, construction types, sizes, and occupancy and encompass the exterior and interior of the
buildings. They also encompass related landscape features and the building's site and environment, as well as attached, adjacent, or related new
construction. To be certified for Federal tax purposes, a rehabilitation project must be determined by the Secretary to be consistent with the historic
character of the structure(s), and where applicable, the district in which it is located.
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THE SECRETARY OF THE INTERIOR'S STANDARDS FOR REHABILITATION
The following Standards are to be applied to specific rehabilitation projects in a reasonable manner, taking into consideration economic and technical
feasibility.
(1) A property shall be used for its historic purpose or be placed in a new use that requires minimal change to the defining characteristics of the
building and its site and environment.
(2) The historic character of a property shall be retained and preserved. The removal of historic materials or alteration of features and spaces thai
characterize a property shall be avoided.
(3) liach property shall be recognized as a physical record of its time, place, and use. Changes that create a false sense of historical development, such
as adding conjectural features or architectural elements from other buildings, shall not be undertaken.
(4) Most properties change over time; those changes that have acquired historic significance in their own right shall be retained and preserved.
(5) Distinctive features, finishes, and construction techniques or examples of craftsmanship that characterize a historic property shall be preserved.
(6) Deteriorated historic features shall be repaired rather than replaced. Where the severity of deterioration requires replacement of a distinctive
feature, the new feature shall match the old in design, color, texture, and other visual qualities and, where possible, materials. Replacement of
missing features shall be substantiated by documentary, physical, or pictorial evidence.
(7) Chemical or physical treatments, such as sandblasting, that cause damage to historic materials shall not be used. The surface cleaning of struc-
tures, if appropriate, shall be undertaken using the gentlest means possible.
(8) Significant archeological resources affected by a project shall be protected and preserved. If such resources must be disturbed, mitigation meas-
ures shall be undertaken.
(9) New additions, exterior alterations, or related new construction shall not destroy historic materials that characterize the property. The new work
shall be differentiated from the old and shall be compatible with the massing, size, scale, and architectural features to protect the historic integrity of
the property and its environment.
(10) New additions and adjacent or related new construction shall be undertaken in such a manner that if removed in the future, the essential form
and integrity of the historic property and its environment would be unimpaired.
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As stated in the definition, the treatment "rehabilitation" assumes that at least some repair or alteration of the historic building will be needed in order to
provide for an efficient contemporary use; however, these repairs and alteration must not damage or destroy materials, features or finishes that are
important in defining the building's historic character. For example, certain treatments—if improperly applied—may cause or accelerate physical dete-
rioration of historic building. This can include using improper repointing or exterior masonry cleaning techniques, or introducing insulation that
damages historic fabric. In almost all of these situations, use of these materials and treatments will result in a project that does not meet the Standards.
Similarly, exterior additions that duplicate the form, material, and detailing of the structure to the extent that they compromise the historic character of
the structure will fail to meet the Standards.
Technical Guidance Publications
The National Park Service, US. Department of the Interior, conducts a variety of activities to guide Federal agencies, States, and the general public in
historic preservation project work. In addition to establishing standards and guidelines, the Service develops, publishes, and distributes technical
information on appropriate preservation treatments, including Preservation Briefs, case studies, and Preservation Tech Notes.
A Catalog of Historic Preservation Publications with stock numbers, prices, and ordering information may be obtained by writing: Preservation Assis-
tance Division, Technical Preservation Services, P.O. Box 37127, Washington, D.C. 20013-7127.
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GUIDELINES FOR REHABILITATING HISTORIC BUILDINGS
The Guidelines were initially developed in 1977 to help property owners, developers, and Federal managers apply the Secretary ol the In-
terior's "Standards for Rehabilitation" during the project planning stage by providing general design and technical recommendations. Unlike
the Standards, the Guidelines are not codified as program requirements. Together with the "Standards for Rehabilitation" they provide a
model process for owners, developers, and Federal agency managers to follow.
It should be noted at the outset that the Guidelines are intended to assist in applying the Standards to projects generally; consequently, they
are not meant to give case-specific advice or address exceptions or rare instances. For example, they cannot tell an owner or developer which
features of their own historic building are important in defining the historic character and must be preserved—although examples are provid-
ed in each section—or which features could be altered, if necessary, for the new use. This kind of careful case-by-case decisionmaking is best
accomplished by seeking assistance from qualified historic preservation professionals in the planning stage of the project. Such professionals
include architects, architectural historians, historians, archeologists, and others who are skilled in the preservation, rehabilitation, and
restoration of historic properties.
The Guidelines pertain to historic buildings of ail sizes, materials, occupancy, and construction types; and apply to interior and exterior work
as well as new exterior additions. Those approaches, treatments, and techniques that are consistent with the Secretary of the Interior's
"Standards for Rehabilitation" are listed in the "Recommended" column on the left; those approaches, treatments, and techniques which
could adversely affect a building's historic character are listed in the "Not Recommended" column on the right.
To provide clear and consistent guidance for owners, developers, and federal agency managers to follow, the "Recommended" courses of ac-
tion in each section are listed in order of historic preservation concerns so that a rehabilitation project may be successfully planned and com-
pleted—one that, first, assures the preservation of a building's important or "character-defining" architectural materials and features and,
second, makes possible an efficient contemporary use. Rehabilitation guidance in each section begins with protection and maintenance, that
work which should be maximized in every project to enhance overall preservation goals. Next, where some deterioration is present, repair of
the building's historic materials and features is recommended. Finally, when deterioration is so extensive that repair is not possible, the most
problematic area of work is considered: replacement of historic materials and features with new materials.
To further guide the owner and developer in planning a successful rehabilitation project, those complex design issues dealing with new use re-
quirements such as alterations and additions are highlighted at the end of each section to underscore the need for particular sensitivity in these
areas.
Identify, Retain, and Preserve
The guidance that is basic to the treatment of all historic buildings—identifying, retaining, and preserving the form and detailing of
those architectural materials and features that are important in defining the historic character—is always listed first in the "Recommended"
column. The parallel "Not Recommended" column lists the types of actions that are most apt to cause the diminution or even loss of the
building's historic character. It should be remembered, however, that such loss of character is just as often caused by the cumulative effect of
8
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a series of actions that would seem to be minor interventions. Thus, the guidance in all of the "Not Recommended" columns must be viewed
in that larger context, e.g., for the total impact on a historic building.
Protect and Maintain
After identifying those materials and features that are important and must be retained in the process of rehabilitation work, then protecting
and maintaining them are addressed. Protection generally involves the least degree of intervention and is preparatory to other work. For
example, protection includes the maintenance of historic material through treatments such as rust removal, caulking, limited paint removal,
and re-application of protective coatings; the cyclical cleaning of roof gutter systems; or installation of fencing, protective plywood, alarm
systems and other temporary protective measures. Although a historic Building will usually require more extensive work, an overall evalua-
tion of its physical condition should always begin at this level.
Repair
Next, when the physical condition of character-defining materials and features warrants additional work repairing is recommended.
Guidance for the repair of historic materials such as masonry, wood, and architectural metals again begins with the least degree of interven-
tion possible such as patching, piecing-in, splicing, consolidating, or otherwise reinforcing or upgrading them according to recognized preser-
vation methods. Repairing also includes the limited replacement in kind—or with compatible substitute material—of extensively deteriorated
or missing parts of features when there are surviving prototypes (for example, brackets, dentils, steps, plaster, or portions of slate or tile roof-
ing). Although using the same kind of material is always the preferred option, substitute material is acceptable if the form and design as well
as the substitute material itself convey the visual appearance of the remaining parts of the feature and finish.
Replace
Following repair in the hierarchy, guidance is provided for replacing an entire character-defining feature with new material because the level
of deterioration or damage of materials precludes repair (for example, an exterior cornice; an interior staircase; or a complete porch or
storefront). If the essential form and detailing are still evident so that the physical evidence can be used to re-establish the feature as an in-
tegral part of the rehabilitation project, then its replacement is appropriate. Like the guidance for repair, the preferred option is always
replacement of the entire feature in kind, that is, with the same material. Because this approach may not always be technically or economical-
ly feasible^ provisions are made to consider the use of a compatible substitute material.
It should be noted that, while the National Park Service guidelines recommend the replacement of an entire character-defining feature under
certain well-defined circumstances, they never recommend removal and replacement with new material of a feature that—although damaged
or deteriorated—could reasonably be repaired and thus preserved.
Design for Missing Historic Features
When an entire interior or exterior feature is missing (for example, an entrance, or cast iron facade; or a principal staircase), it no longer plays
a role in physically defining the historic character of the building unless it can be accurately recovered in form and detailing through the proc-
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ess of carefully documenting the historical appearance. Where an important architectural feature is missing, its recovery is always recom-
mended in the guidelines as the first or preferred, course of action. Thus, if adequate historical, pictorial, and physical documentation exists
so that the feature may be accurately reproduced, and if it is desireable to re-establish the feature as part of the building's historical ap-
pearance, then designing and constructing a new feature based on such information is appropriate. However, a second acceptable option for
the replacement feature is a new design that is compatible with the remaining character-defining features of the historic building. The new
design should always take into account the size, scale, and material of the historic building itself and, most importantly, should be clearly dif-
ferentiated so that a false historical appearance is not created.
Alterations/Additions to Historic Buildings
Some exterior and interior alterations to the historic building are generally needed to assure its continued use, but it is most important that
such alterations do not radically change, obscure, or destroy character-defining spaces, materials, features, or finishes. Alterations may in-
clude providing additional parking space on an existing historic building site; cutting new entrances or windows on secondary elevations; in-
serting an additional floor; installing an entirely new mechanical system; or creating an atrium or light well. Alteration may also include the
selective removal of buildings or other features of the environment or building site that are intrusive and therefore detract from the overall
historic character.
The construction of an exterior addition to a historic building may seem to be essential for the new use, but it is emphasized in the guidelines
that such new additions should be avoided, if possible, and considered only after it is determined that those needs cannot be met by altering
secondary, i.e., non character-defining interior spaces. If, after a thorough evaluation of interior solutions, an exterior addition is still judged
to be the only viable alternative, it should be designed and constructed to be clearly differentiated from the historic building and so that the
character-defining features are not radically changed, obscured, damaged, or destroyed.
Additions to historic buildings are referenced within specific sections of the guidelines such as Site, Roof, Structural Systems, etc., but are
also considered in more detail in a separate section, NEW ADDITIONS TO HISTORIC BUILDINGS.
Health and Safety Code Requirements; Energy Retrofitting
These sections of the rehabilitation guidance address work done to meet health and safety code requirements (for example, providing barrier-
free access to historic buildings); or retrofitting measures to conserve energy (for example, installing solar collectors in an unobtrusive loca-
tion on the site). Although this work is quite often an important aspect of rehabilitation projects, it is usually not part of the overall process of
protecting or repairing character-defining features; rather, such work is assessed for its potential negative impact on the building's historic
character, for this reason, particular care must be taken not to radically change, obscure, damage, or destroy character-defining materials or
features in the process of rehabilitation work to meet code and energy requirements.
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Specific information on rehabilitation and preservation technology may be obtained by writing to the National Park Service, at the addresses
listed below:
Preservation Assistance Division
National Park Service
P.O. Box 37127
Washington, D.C. 20013-7127
National Historic Preservation
Programs
Western Regional Office
National Park Service
450 Golden Gate Ave.
Box 36063
San Francisco, CA 94102
Division of Cultural Resources
Rocky Mountain Regional Office
National Park Service
655 Parfet St.
P.O. Box 25287
Denver, CO 80225
Preservation Services Division
Southeast Regional Office
National Park Service
75 Spring St. SW., Room 1140
Atlanta, GA 30303
Office of Cultural Programs
Mid-Atlantic Regional Office
National Park Service
Second and Chestnut Streets
Philadelphia, PA 19106
Cultural Resources Division
Alaska Regional Office
National Park Service
2525 Gambell St.
Anchorage, AK 99503
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BUILDING EXTERIOR Masonry features (such as brick cornices and door pediments, stone window architraves, terra
cotta brackets and railings) as well as masonry surfaces (modelling, tooling, bonding patterns,
Masonry: Brick, atone, terra joint size, and color) may be important in defining the historic character of the building. It should
cotta, concrete, adobe, be noted that while masonry is among the most durable of historic building materials, it is also the
stucco and mortar most susceptible to damage by improper maintenance or repair techniques and by harsh or
abrasive cleaning methods. Most preservation guidance on masonry thus focuses on such concerns
as cleaning and the process of repointing.
Recommended
Identifying, retaining, and preserving masonry features that are im-
portant in defining the overall historic character of the building
such as walls, brackets, railings, cornices, window architraves,
door pediments, steps, and columns; and joint and unit size, tool-
ing and bonding patterns, coatings, and color.
Not Recommended
Removing or radically changing masonry features which are impor-
tant in defining the overall historic character of the building so
that, as a result, the character is diminished.
Replacing or rebuilding a major portion of exterior masonry walls
that could be repaired so that, as a result, the building is no longer
historic and is essentially new construction.
Applying paint or other coatings such as stucco to masonry that
has been historically unpainted or uncoated to create a new ap-
pearance.
Removing paint from historically painted masonry.
Radically changing the type of paint or coating or its color.
Protecting and maintaining masonry by providing proper drainage
so that water does not stand on flat, horizontal surfaces or ac-
cumulate in curved decorative features.
Cleaning masonry only when necessary to halt deterioration or
remove heavy soiling.
Failing to evaluate and treat the various causes of mortar joint
deterioration such as leaking roofs or gutters, differential settle-
ment of the building, capillary action, or extreme weather ex-
posure.
Cleaning masonry surfaces when they are not heavily soiled to
create a new appearance, thus needlessly introducing chemicals or
moisture into historic materials.
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Masonry (continued)
Recommended
Carrying out masonry surface cleaning tests after it has been deter-
mined that such cleaning is necessary. Tests should be observed
over a sufficient period of time so that both the immediate effects
and the long range effects are known to enable selection of the
gentlest method possible.
Cleaning masonry surfaces with the gentlest method possible, such
as low pressure water and detergents, using natural bristle brushes.
Inspecting painted masonry surfaces to determine whether repaint-
ing is necessary.
Removing damaged or deteriorated paint only to the next sound
layer using the gentlest method possible (e.g., handscraping) prior
to repainting.
Applying compatible paint coating systems following proper sur-
face preparation.
Repainting with colors that are historically appropriate to the
building and district.
Not Recommended
Cleaning masonry surfaces without testing or without sufficient
time for the testing results to be of value.
Sandblasting brick or stone surfaces using dry or wet grit or other
abrasives. These methods of cleaning permanently erode the sur-
face of the material and accelerate deterioration.
Using a cleaning method that involves water or. liquid chemical
solutions when there is any possibility of freezing temperatures.
Cleaning with chemical products that will damage masonry, such
as using acid on limestone or marble, or leaving chemicals on
masonry surfaces.
Applying high pressure water cleaning methods that will damage
historic masonry and the mortar joints.
Removing paint that is firmly adhering to, and thus protecting,
masonry surfaces.
Using methods of removing paint which are destructive to
masonry, such as sandblasting, application of caustic solutions, or
high pressure waterblasting.
Failing to follow manufacturers' product and application instruc-
tions when repainting masonry.
Using new paint colors that are inappropriate to the historic
building and district.
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Masonry (continued)
Recommended
Evaluating the overall condition of the masonry to determine
whether more than protection and maintenance are required, that
is, if repairs to the masonry features will be necessary.
Repairing masonry walls and other masonry features by repointing
the mortar joints where there is evidence of deterioration such as
disintegrating mortar, cracks in mortar joints, loose bricks, damp
walls, or damaged plasterwork.
Removing deteriorated mortar by carefully hand-raking the joints
to avoid damaging the masonry.
Duplicating old mortar in strength, composition, color, and tex-
ture.
Duplicating old mortar joints in width and in joint profile.
Repairing stucco by removing the damaged material and patching
with new stucco that duplicates the old in strength, composition,
color, and texture.
Using mud plaster as a surface coating over unfired, unstabilized
adobe because the mud plaster will bond to the adobe.
14
Not Recommended
Failing to undertake adequate measures to assure the preservation
of masonry features.
Removing nondeteriorated mortar from sound joints, then repoint-
ing the entire building to achieve a uniform appearance.
Using electric saws and hammers rather than hand tools to remove
deteriorated mortar from joints prior to repointing.
Repointing with mortar of high portland cement content (unless it
is the content of the historic mortar). This can often create a bond
that is stronger than the historic material and can cause damage as a
result of the differing coefficient of expansion and the differing
porosity of the material and the mortar.
Repointing with a synthetic caulking compound.
Using a "scrub" coating technique to repoint instead of traditional
repointing methods.
Changing the width or joint profile when repointing.
Removing sound stucco; or repairing with new stucco that is
stronger than the historic material or does not convey the same
visual appearance.
Applying cement stucco to unfired, unstabilized adobe. Because
the cement stucco will not bond properly, moisture can become en-
trapped between materials, resulting in accelerated deterioration of
the adobe.
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Masonry (continued)
Recommended
Not Recommended
Repairing masonry features by patching, piecing-in, or con-
solidating the masonry using recognized preservation methods.
Repair may also include the limited replacement in kind—or with
compatible substitute material—of those extensively deteriorated
or missing parts of masonry features when there are surviving pro-
totypes such as terra-cotta brackets or stone balusters.
Applying new or non-historic surface treatments such as water-
repellent coatings to masonry only after repointing and only if
masonry repairs have failed to arrest water penetration problems.
Replacing in kind an entire masonry feature that is too deteriorated
to repair—if the overall form and detailing are still evident—using
the physical evidence to guide the new work. Examples can include
large sections of a wall, a cornice, balustrade, column, or stairway.
If using the same kind of material is not technically or economically
feasible, then a compatible substitute material may be considered.
Replacing an entire masonry feature such as a cornice or balustrade
when repair of the masonry and limited replacement of
deteriorated or missing parts are appropriate.
Using a substitute material for the replacement part that does not
convey the visual appearance of the surviving parts of the masonry
feature or that is physically or chemically incompatible.
Applying waterproof, water-repellent, or non-historic coatings
such as stucco to masonry as a substitute for repointing and
masonry repairs. Coatings are frequently unnecessary, expensive,
and may change the appearance of historic masonry as well as ac-
celerate its deterioration.
Removing a masonry feature that is unrepairable and not replacing
it; or replacing it with a new feature that does not convey the same
visual appearance.
The following work is highlighted to indicate that it represents the particularly complex technical or design aspects of rehabilitation projects
and should only be considered after the preservation concerns listed above have been addressed.
Design for Missing Historic Features
Creating a false historical appearance because the replaced
masonry feature is based on insufficient historical, pictorial, and
physical documentation.
Introducing a new masonry feature that is incompatible in size,
scale, material and color.
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Wood: Clapboard, weather-
board, shingles, and other
tvooden siding and
decorative elements
Because it can be easily shaped by sawing, planing, carving, and gouging, wood is the most com-
monly used material for architectural features such afe clapboards, cornices, brackets, entablatures,
shutters, columns and balustrades. These wooden features—both functional and decorative—may
be important in defining the historic character of the building and thus their retention, protection,
and repair are of particular importance in rehabilitation projects.
Recommended
Identifying, retaining, and preserving wood features that are im-
portant in defining the overall historic character of the building
such as siding, cornices, brackets,'window architraves, and door-
way pediments; and their paints, finishes, and colors.
Not Recommended
Removing or radically changing wood features which are impor-
tant in defining the overall historic character of the building so
that, as a result, the character is diminished.
Removing a major portion of the historic wood from a facade in-
stead of repairing or replacing only the deteriorated wood, then
reconstructing the facade with new material in order to achieve a
uniform or "improved" appearance.
Radically changing the type of finish or its color or accent scheme
so that the historic character of the exterior is diminished.
Stripping historically painted surfaces to bare wood, then applying
clear finishes or stains in order to create a "natural look."
Stripping paint or varnish to bare wood rather than repairing or
reapplying a special finish, i.e., a grained finish to an exterior wood
feature such as a front door.
Protecting and maintaining wood features by providing proper
drainage so that water is not allowed to stand on flat, horizontal
surfaces or accumulate in decorative features.
Failing to identify, evaluate, and treat the causes of wood
deterioration, including faulty flashing, leaking gutters, cracks and
holes in siding, deteriorated caulking in joints and seams, plant
material growing too close to wood surfaces, or insect or fungus in-
festation.
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Wood (continued)
Recommended
Applying chemical preservatives to wood features such as beam
ends or outriggers that are exposed to decay hazards and are tradi-
tionally unpainted.
Retaining coatings such as paint that help protect the wood from
moisture and ultraviolet light. Paint removal should be considered
only where there is paint surface deterioration and as part of an
overall maintenance program which involves repainting or apply-
ing other appropriate protective coatings.
Inspecting painted wood surfaces to determine whether repainting
is necessary or if cleaning is all that is required.
Removing damaged or deteriorated paint to the next sound layer
using the gentlest method possible (handscraping and
handsanding), then repainting.
Using with care electric hot-air guns on decorative wood features
and electric heat plates on flat wood surfaces when paint is so
deteriorated that total removal is necessary prior to repainting.
Using chemical strippers primarily to supplement other methods
such as handscraping, handsanding and the above-recommended
thermal devices. Detachable wooden elements such as shutters,
doors, and columns may—with the proper safeguards—be
chemically dip-stripped.
Applying compatible paint coating systems following proper sur-
face preparation.
Repainting with colors that are appropriate to the'historic building
and district.
Not Recommended
Using chemical preservatives such as creosote which can change the
appearance of wood features unless they were used historically.
Stripping paint or other coatings to reveal bare wood, thus expos-
ing historically coated surfaces to the effects of accelerated
weathering.
Removing paint that is firmly adhering to, and thus, protecting
wood surfaces.
Using destructive paint removal methods such as a propane or
butane torches, sandblasting or waterblasting. These methods can
irreversibly damage historic woodwork.
Using thermal devices improperly so that the historic woodwork is
scorched.
Failing to neutralize the wood thoroughly after using chemicals so
that new paint does not adhere.
Allowing detachable wood features to soak too long in a caustic
solution so that the wood grain is raised and the surface roughened.
Failing to follow manufacturers' product and application instruc-
tions when repainting exterior woodwork.
Using new colors that are inappropriate to the historic building or
district.
17
-------
Wood (continued)
Recommended
Not Recommended
Evaluating the overall condition of the wood to determine whether
more than protection and maintenance are required, that is, if
repairs to wood features will be necessary.
Repairing wood features by patching, piecing-in, consolidating, or
otherwise reinforcing the wood using recognized preservation
methods. Repair may also include the limited replacement in
kind—or with compatible substitute material—of those extensively
deteriorated or missing parts of features where there are surviving
prototypes such as brackets, moldings, or sections of siding.
Replacing in kind an entire wood feature that is too deteriorated to
repair—if the overall form and detailing are still evident—using the
physical evidence to guide the new work. Examples of wood
features include a cornice, entablature or balustrade. If using the
same kind of material is not technically or economically feasible,
then a compatible substitute material may be considered.
Failing to undertake adequate measures to assure the preservation
of wood features.
Replacing an entire wood feature such as a cornice or wall when
repair of the wood and limited replacement of deteriorated or miss-
ing parts are appropriate.
Using substitute materials for the replacement part that does not
convey the visual appearance of the surviving parts of the wood
feature or that is physically or chemically incompatible.
Removing an entire wood feature that is unrepairable and not
replacing it; or replacing it with a new feature that does not convey
the same visual appearance.
The following work is highlighted because it represents the particularly complex technical or design aspects of rehabilitation projects and
should only be considered after the preservation concerns listed above have been addressed.
Design for Missing Historic Features
Designing and insfa|lix)3
fiice or doorway whin tjte hlstosiQ
ing. lt may be an accurate restoraUw Uslnig historical;
torial, and physical documentation; or^be a newdeiigj* thai
is compatible with the size* scale, material, and color ofcthe
historic building.
Creating a false historic appearance because the replaced wood
feature is based on insufficient historical, pictorial, and physical
documentation.
Introducing a new wood feature that is incompatible in size, scale,
material, and color.
18
-------
Architectural Metals: Cast
iront steel, pressed tin, cop-
per, aluminum, and Mine
Architectural metal features—such as cast-iron facades, porches, and steps; sheet metal cornices,
roofs, roof cresting and storefronts; and cast or rolled metal doors, window sash, entablatures,
and hardware—are often highly decorative and may be important in defining the overall historic
character of the building. Their retention, protection, and repair should be a prime consideration
in rehabilitation projects.
Recommended
Identifying, retaining, and preserving architectural metal features
such as columns, capitals, window hoods, or stairways that are im-
portant in defining the overall historic character of the building;
and their finishes and colors.
Not Recommended
Removing or radically changing architectural metal features which
are important in defining the overall historic character of the
building so that, as a result, the character is diminished.
Removing a major portion of the historic architectural metal from a
facade instead of repairing or replacing only the deteriorated metal,
then reconstructing the facade with new material in order to create
a uniform, or "improved" appearance.
Radically changing the type of finish or its historical color or accent
scheme.
Protecting and maintaining architectural metals from corrosion by
providing proper drainage so that water does not stand on flat,
horizontal surfaces or accumulate in curved, decorative features.
Cleaning architectural metals, when necessary, to remove corro-
sion prior to repainting or applying other appropriate protective
coatings.
Failing to identify, evaluate, and treat the causes of corrosion, such
as moisture from leaking roofs or gutters.
Placing incompatible metals together without providing a reliable
separation material. Such incompatibility can result in galvanic
corrosion of the less noble metal, e.g., copper will corrode cast
iron, steel, tin, and aluminum.
Exposing metals which were intended to be protected from the en-
vironment.
Applying paint or other coatings to metals such as copper, bronze,
or stainless steel that were meant to be exposed.
19
-------
Architectural Metals (continued)
Recommended
identifying the particular type of metal prior to any cleaning pro-
cedure and then testing to assure that the gentlest cleaning method
possible is selected or determining that cleaning is inappropriate for
the particular metal.
Cleaning soft metals such as lead, tin, copper, terneplate, and zinc
with appropriate chemical methods because their finishes can be
easily abraded by blasting methods.
Using the gentlest cleaning methods for cast iron, wrought iron,
and steel—hard metals—in order to remove paint buildup and cor-
rosion. If handscraping and wire brushing have proven ineffective,
low pressure dry grit blasting may be used as long as it does not
abrade or damage the surface.
Applying appropriate paint or other coating systems after cleaning
in order to decrease the corrosion rate of metals or alloys.
Repainting with colors that are appropriate to the historic building
or district.
Applying an appropriate protective coating such as lacquer to an
architectural metal feature such as a bronze door which is subject to
heavy pedestrian use.
Evaluating the overall condition of the architectural metals to
determine whether more than protection and maintenance are re-
quired, that is, if repairs to features will be necessary.
20
Not Recommended
Using cleaning methods which alter or damage the historic color,
texture, and finish of the metal; or cleaning when it is inappropriate
for the metal.
Removing the patina of historic metal. The patina may be a protec-
tive coating on some metals, such as bronze or copper, as well as a
significant historic finish.
Cleaning soft metals such as lead, tin, copper, terneplate, and zinc
with grit blasting which will abrade the surface of the metal.
Failing to employ gentler methods prior to abrasively cleaning cast
iron, wrought iron or steel; or using high pressure grit blasting.
Failing to re-apply protective coating systems to metals or alloys
that require them after cleaning so that accelerated corrosion oc-
curs.
Using new colors that are inappropriate to the historic building or
district.
Failing to assess pedestrian use or new access patterns so that arch-
itectural metal features are subject to damage by use or in-
appropriate maintenance such as salting adjacent sidewalks.
Failing to undertake adequate measures to assure the preservation
of architectural metal features.
-------
Architectural Metals (continued)
Recommended
Repairing architectual metal features by patching, splicing, or
otherwise reinforcing the metal following recognized preservation
methods. Repairs may also include the limited replacement in
kind—or with a compatible substitute material—of those exten-
sively deteriorated or missing parts of features when there are sur-
viving prototypes such as porch balusters, column capitals or
bases; or porch cresting.
Not Recommended
Replacing an entire architectural metal feature such as a column or
a balustrade when repair of the metal and limited replacement of
deteriorated or missing parts are appropriate.
Using a substitute material for the replacement part that does not
convey the visual appearance of the surviving parts of the architec-
tural metal feature or that is physically or chemically incompatible.
Replacing in kind an entire architectural metal feature that is too
deteriorated to repair—if the overall form and detailing are still
evident—using the physical evidence to guide the new work. Ex-
amples could include cast iron porch steps or steel sash windows. If
using the same kind of materia! is not technically or economically
feasible, then a compatible substitute material may be considered.
Removing an architectural metal feature that is unrepairable and
not replacing it; or replacing it with a new architectural metal
feature that does not convey the same visual appearance.
The following work is highlighted to indicate that it represents the particularly complex technical or design aspects of rehabilitation projects
and should only be considered after the preservation concerns listed above have been addressed.
Design for Missing Historic Features
Designing and installing a new architectural metal feature
such as a sheet metal cornice or cast iron capital when the
historic feature is completely missing. It may be an accurate
restoration using historical, pictorial , and physical documen-
tation; or be a new design that is compatible with the size,
scale,, material, and color of the historic building,
Creating a false historic appearance because the replaced architec-
tural metal feature is based on insufficient historical, pictorial, and
physical documentation.
Introducing a new architectural metal feature that is incompatible
in size, scale, material, and color.
21
-------
Roofs The roof—with its shape; features such as cresting, dormers, cupolas, and chimneys; and the size,
color, and patterning of the roofing material—can be extremely important in defining the
building's overall historic character. In addition to the design role it plays, a weathertight roof is
essential to the preservation of the entire structure; thus, protecting and repairing the roof as a
"cover" is a critical aspect of every rehabilitation project.
Recommended
Identifying, retaining, and preserving roofs—and their functional
and decorative features—that are important in defining the overall
historic character of the building. This includes the roof's shape,
such as hipped, gambrel, and mansard; decorative features such as
cupolas, cresting, chimneys, and weathervanes; and roofing
material such as slate, wood, clay tile, and metal, as well as its size,
color, and patterning.
Not Recommended
Radically changing, damaging, or destroying roofs which are im-
portant in defining the overall historic character of the building so
that, as a result, the character is diminished.
Removing a major portion of the roof or roofing material that is
repairable, then reconstructing it with new material in order to
create a uniform, or "improved" appearance.
Changing the configuration of a roof by adding new features such
as dormer windows, vents, or skylights so that the historic
character is diminished.
Protecting and maintaining a roof by cleaning the gutters and
downspouts and replacing deteriorated flashing. Roof sheathing
should also be checked for proper venting to prevent moisture con-
densation and water penetration; and to insure that materials are
free from insect infestation.
Providing adequate anchorage for roofing materia] to guard against
wind damage and moisture penetration.
Stripping the roof of sound historic material such as slate, clay tile,
wood, and architectural metal.
Applying paint or other coatings to roofing material which has
been historically uncoated.
Failing to clean and maintain gutters and downspouts properly so
that water and debris collect and cause damage to roof fasteners,
sheathing, and the underlying structure.
Allowing roof fasteners, such as nails and clips to corrode so that
roofing material is subject to accelerated deterioration.
22
-------
Roof (continued)
Recommended
Protecting a leaking roof with plywood and building paper until it
can be properly repaired.
Repairing a roof by reinforcing the historic materials which com-
prise roof features. Repairs will also generally include the limited
replacement in kind—or with compatible substitute material—of
those extensively deteriorated or missing parts of features when
there are surviving prototypes such as cupola louvers, dentils,
dormer roofing; or slates, tiles, or wood shingles on a main roof.
Replacing in kind an entire feature of the roof that is too
deteriorated to repair—if the overall form and detailing are still
evidence—using the physical evidence to guide the new work. Ex-
amples can include a large section of roofing, or a dormer or
chimney. If using the same kind of material is not technically or
economically feasible, then a compatible substitute material may
be considered.
Not Recommended
Permitting a leaking roof to remain unprotected so that accelerated
deterioration of historic building materials—masonry, wood,
plaster, paint and structural members—occurs.
Replacing an entire roof feature such as a cupola or dormer when
repair of the historic materials and limited replacement of
deteriorated or missing parts are appropriate.
Using a substitute material for the replacement part that does not
convey the visual appearance of the surviving parts of the roof or
that is physically or chemically incompatible.
Removing a feature of the roof that is unrepairable, such as a
chimney or dormer, and not replacing it; or replacing it with a new
feature that does not convey the same visual appearance.
The following work is highlighted to indicate that it represents the particularly complex technical or design aspects of rehabilitation projects
and should only be considered after the preservation concerns listed above have been addressed.
Design for Missing Historic Features
Designing *n4 constructing a new feature when the historic
feature is completely missing, such as a chimney or cupola. It
may be an accurate restoration using historical, pictorial and
physical documentation; pr be a new design that is compati-
bly Wie the ****> ecale, material, and color of the historic
Creating a false historical appearance because the replaced feature
is based on insufficient historical, pictorial, and physical documen-
tation.
Introducing a new roof feature that is incompatible in size, scale,
material, and color.
23
-------
Roof (continued)
Recommended
Alterations/Additions for the New Use
ilhii&lftig ^ and service equipment on the roof such
as air conditioning,* transformers, or sojar collectors when re*
quired ior the new use so that they are inconspicuous froth
the public right-of-way and do not damage or obscure char^
acter-defining features^
Designing additions to roofs such as residential, office, or
storage' spaces; elevator housing; decks and terraces. Or
dormers or skylights when required by the new use so that
they are inconspicuoui from the public right-of-way and do.
not damage or obscure character-defining features.
24
Not Recommended
Installing mechanical or service equipment so that it damages or
obscures character-defining features; or is conspicuous from the
public right-of-way.
Radically changing a character-defining roof shape or damaging or
destroying character-defining roofing material as a result of incom-
patible design or improper installation techniques.
-------
Windows A highly decorative window with an unusual shape, or glazing pattern, or color is most likely iden-
tified immediately as a character-defining feature of the building. It is far more difficult, however,
to assess the importance of repeated windows on a facade, particularly if they are individually sim-
ple in design and material, such as the large, multi-paned sash of many industrial buildings.
Because rehabilitation projects frequently include proposals to replace window sash or even entire
windows to improve thermal efficiency or to create a new appearance, it is essential that their con-
tribution to the overall historic character of the building be assessed together with their physical
condition before specific repair or replacement work is undertaken.
Recommended
Not Recommended
Identifying, retaining, and preserving windows—and their func-
tional and decorative features—that are important in defining the
overall historic character of the building. Such features can include
frames, sash, muntins, glazing, sills, heads, hoodmolds, panelled or
decorated jambs and moldings, and interior and exterior shutters
and blinds.
Protecting and maintaining the wood and architectural metal
which comprise the window frame, sash, muntins,, and surrounds
through appropriate surface treatments such as cleaning, rust
removal, limited paint removal, and re-application of protective
coating systems.
Removing or radically changing windows which are important in
defining the overall historic character of the building so that, as a
result, the character is diminished.
Changing the number, location, size or glazing pattern of windows,
through cutting new openings, blocking-in windows, and installing
replacement sash which does not fit the historic window opening.
Changing the historic appearance of windows through the use of
inappropriate designs, materials, finishes, or colors which radically
change the sash, depth of reveal, and muntin configuration; the
reflectivity and color of the glazing; or the appearance of the frame.
Obscuring historic window trim with metal or other material.
Stripping windows of historic material such as wood, iron, cast
iron, and bronze.
Failing to provide adequate protection of materials on a cyclical
basis so that deterioration of the windows results.
25
-------
Windows (continued)
Recommended
Making windows weathertight by recaulking and replacing or in-
stalling weatherstripping. These actions also improve thermal effi-
ciency .
Evaluating the overall condition of materials to determine whether
more than protection and maintenance are required, i.e. if repairs
to windows and window features will be required.
Repairing window frames and sash by patching, splicing, con-
solidating or otherwise reinforcing. Such repair may also include
replacement in kind of those parts that are either extensively
deteriorated or are missing when there are surviving prototypes
such as architraves, hoodmolds, sash, sills, and interior or exterior
shutters and blinds.
Replacing in kind an entire window that is too deteriorated to
repair—if the overall form and detailing are still evident—using the
physical evidence to guide the new work. If using the same kind of
material is not technically or economically feasible, then a compati-
ble substitute material may be considered.
Not Recommended
Retrofitting or replacing windows rather than maintaining the sash,
frame, and glazing.
Failing to undertake adequate measures to assure the preservation
of historic windows.
Replacing an entire window when repair of materials and limited
replacement of deteriorated or missing parts are appropriate.
Failing to reuse serviceable window hardware such as brass lifts and
sash locks.
Using a substitute.material for the replacement part that does not
convey the visual appearance of the surviving parts of the window
or that is physically or chemically incompatible.
Removing a character-defining window that is unrepairable and
blocking it in; or replacing it with a new window that does not con-
vey the same visual appearance.
The following work Is highlighted to indicate that it represents the particularly complex technical or design aspects of rehabilitation projects
and should only be considered after the preservation concerns listed above have been addressed.
Design for Missing Historic Features
$8i
when tne jiktoxk win*
. ^ , *ml glaring) are c^letd/n^. The
replacement ma/b« art ataintte restoration Using
hi^ori|al;?pktorial;" and physical doctf crtentatiqit; or be a
new dou^thati? compatible With the window openings and
the historic d>aradejc of the IbuikUftg.
Creating a false historical appearance because the replaced window
is based on insufficient historical, pictorial, and physical documen-
tation.
Introducing a new design that is incompatible with the historic
character of the building.
26
-------
Windows (continued)
Recommended
Alterations/ Additions for the New Use
De^in$^d fo$*Uiri$ r rpafjon
pther-non character-definingelevatiorts tf required by 'the
pe\y use. New windows openings may also becut inter-
posed party walls/Such design should be compatible with
the'overall ^esi^df the th^
elevation.
]>roy$ito^^bac^W desigrfof:drop^t^linra^l^
:|h^"»^^ii^4 jK*jfj|H|:aft'us*to iltew for theftiu helah t
^ew&dftw openings^
Not Recommended
Installing new windows, including frames, sash, and muntin con-
figuration that are incompatible with the building's historic ap-
pearance or obscure, damage, or destroy character-defining
features.
Inserting new floors or furred-down ceilings which cut across the
glazed areas of windows so that the exterior form and appearance
of the windows are changed.
27
-------
Entrances Entrances and porches are quite often the focus of historic buildings, particularly when they occur
and Porches on primary elevations. Together with their functional and decorative features such as doors, steps,
balustrades, pilasters, and entablatures, they can- be extremely important in defining the overall
historic character of a building. Their retention, protection, and repair should always be carefully
considered when planning rehabilitation work.
Recommended
Not Recommended
Identifying, retaining, and preserving entrances—and their func-
tional and decorative features—that are important in defining the
overall historic character of the* building such as doors, fanlights,
sidelights, pilasters, entablatures, columns, balustrades, and stairs.
Removing or radically changing entrances and porches which are
important in defining the overall historic character of the building
so that, as a result, the character is diminished.
Stripping entrances and porches of historic material such as wood,
iron, cast iron, terra cotta, tile and brick.
Removing an entrance or porch because the building has been re-
oriented to accommodate a new use.
Protecting and maintaining the masonry, wood, and architectural
metal that comprise entrances and porches through appropriate
surface treatments such as cleaning, rust removal, limited paint
removal, and re-application of protective coating systems.
Evaluating the overall condition of materials to determine whether
more than protection and maintenance are required, that is, if
repairs to entrance and porch features will be necessary.
Cutting new entrances on a primary elevation.
Altering utilitarian or service entrances so they appear to be formal
entrances by adding panelled doors, fanlights, and sidelights.
Failing to provide adequate protection to materials on a cyclical
basis so that deterioration of entrances and porches results.
Failing to undertake adequate measures to assure the preservation
of historic entrances and porches.
28
-------
Entrances and Porches (continued)
Recommended
Repairing entrances and porches by reinforcing the historic
materials. Repair will also generally include the limited replacement
in kind—or with compatible substitute material—of those exten-
sively deteriorated or missing parts of repeated features where there
are surviving prototypes such as balustrades, cornices, en-
tablatures, columns, sidelights, and stairs.
Replacing in kind an entire entrance or porch that is too
deteriorated to repair—if the form and detailing are still
evident—using the physical evidence to guide the new work. If
using the same kind of material is not technically or economically
feasible, then a compatible substitute material may be considered.
Not Recommended
Replacing an entire entrance or porch when the repair of materials
and limited replacement of parts are appropriate.
Using a substitute material for the replacement parts that does not
convey the visual appearance of the surviving parts of the entrance
and porch or that is physically or chemically incompatible.
Removing an entrance or porch that is unrepairable and not replac-
ing it; or replacing it with a new entrance or porch that does not
convey the same visual appearance.
The following work is highlighted to indicate that it represents the particularly complex technical or design aspects of rehabilitation projects
and should only be considered after the preservation concerns listed above have been addressed.
Design for Missing Historic Features
Designing and constructing a new entrance or porch if the
historic entrance or porch is completely missing. It may be a
restoration based on historical, pictorial, and physical
documentation; or be a new design that is compatible with
the historic character of the building.
Alterations/Additions for the New Use
Creating a false historical appearance because the replaced entrance
or porch is based on insufficient historical, pictorial, and physical
documentation.
Introducing a new entrance or porch that is incompatible in size,
scale, material, and color.
Designing enclosures for historic porches when required by
the new use in a manner that preserves the historic character
of the building. This can include using large sheets of glass
and recessing the enclosure wall behind existing scrollwork,
posts, and balustrades.
Enclosing porches in a manner that results in a diminution or loss of
historic character such as using solid materials such as wood, stuc-
co, or masonry.
29
-------
Entrances and Porches (continued)
Recommended
Designing and installing additional ertttdncrf or jfcjithes
whenrequired for thi new use in a manner thai preserves the
historic character of the buildjng> i.e», limiting suchalter&»
lion to non-characiernieBning elevations.
30
Not Recommended
Installing secondary service entrances and porches that are incom-
patible in size and scale with the historic building or obscure,
damage, or destroy character-defining features.
-------
Storefronts Storefronts are quite often the focus of historic commercial buildings and can thus be extremely
important in defining the overall historic character. Because storefronts also play a crucial role in a
store's advertising and merchandising strategy to draw customers and increase business, they are
often altered to meet the needs of a new business. Particular care is required in planning and ac-
complishing work on storefronts so that the building's historic character is preserved in the process
of rehabilitation.
Recommended
Not Recommended
Identifying, retaining, and preserving storefronts—and their func-
tional and decorative features—that are important in defining the
overall historic character of the building such as display windows,
signs, doors, transoms, kick plates, corner posts, and entablatures.
Removing or radically changing storefronts—and their
features—which are important in defining the overall historic
character of the building so that, as a result, the character is
diminished.
Changing the storefront so that it appears residential rather than
commercial in character.
Removing historic material from the storefront to create a recessed
arcade.
Introducing coach lanterns, mansard overhangings, wood shakes,
nonoperable shutters, and small-paned windows if they cannot be
documented historically.
Changing the location of a storefront's main entrance.
Protecting and maintaining masonry, wood, and architectural
metals which comprise storefronts through appropriate treatments
such as cleaning, rust removal, limited paint removal, and reap-
plication of protective coating systems.
Failing to provide adequate protection to materials on a cyclical
basis so that deterioration of storefront features results.
31
-------
Storefronts (continued)
Recommended
Protecting storefronts against arson and vandalism before work
begins by boarding up windows and installing alarm systems that
are keyed into local protection agencies.
Evaluating the overall condition1 of storefront materials to deter-
mine whether more than protection and maintenance are required,
that is, if repairs to features will be necessary.
Repairing storefronts by reinforcing the historic materials. Repairs
will also generally Include the limited replacement in kind—or with
compatible substitute material—of those extensively deteriorated
or missing parts of storefronts where there are surviving prototypes
such as transoms, kick plates, pilasters, or signs.
Replacing in kind an entire storefront that is too deteriorated to
repair—if the overall form and detailing are still evident—using the
physical evidence to guide the new work. If using the same material
is not technically or economically feasible, then compatible
subsliluto materials may be considered.
32
Not Recommended
Permitting entry into the building through unsecured or broken
windows and doors so that interior features and finishes are
damaged through exposure to weather or through vandalism.
Stripping storefronts of historic material such as wood, cast iron,
terra cotta, carrara glass, and brick.
Failing to undertake adequate measures to assure the preservation
of the historic storefront.
Replacing an entire storefront when repair of materials and limited
replacement of its parts are appropriate.
Using substitute material for the replacement parts that does not
convey the same visual appearance as the surviving parts of the
storefront or that is physically or chemically incompatible.
Removing a storefront that is unrepairable and not replacing it; or
replacing it with a new storefront that does not convey the same
visual appearance.
-------
Storefronts (continued)
The following work is highlighted to indicate thai it represents the particularly complex technical or design aspects of rehabilitation projects
and should only be considered after the preservation concerns listed above have been addressed.
Recommended
Not Recommended
Design for Missing Historic Features
Designing and constructing a new storefront when the
historic storefront is completely missing. It may be an ac-
curate restoration using historical/ pictorial, and physical
documentation; or be a new design that Is compatible with
the size,'scale, material, and color of the historic building.
Such new design should generally be flush with the facade;
fuid the treatment of secondary design elements, such as
awnings or signs, kept as simple as possible. For example,
new signs should fit flush with theexisting features of the
facfcdej vbcti as the fascia board or cornice,
Creating a false historical appearance because the replaced
storefront is based on insufficient historical, pictorial, and physical
documentation.
Introducing a new design that is incompatible in size, scale,
material, and color.
Using new illuminated signs; inappropriately scaled signs and
logos; signs that project over the sidewalk unless they were a
characteristic feature of the historic building; or other types of signs
that obscure, damage, or destroy remaining character-defining
features of the historic building.
33
-------
BUILDING INTERIOR If features of the structural system are exposed such as Joadbearing brick walls, cast Iron
Structural System columns, roof trusses, posts and beams, vigas, or stone foundation walls, they may be important
in defining the building's overall historic character. Unexposed structural features that are not
character-defining or an entire structural system may nonetheless be significant in the history of
building technology; therefore, the structural system should always be examined and evaluated
early in the project planning stage to determine both its physical condition and its importance to
the building's historic character or historical significance. See also Health and Safety Code Re-
quirements.
Recommended
Identifying, retaining, and preserving structural systems—and in-
dividual features of systems—that are important in defining the
overall historic character of the building, such as post and beam
systems, trusses, summer beams, vigas, cast iron columns, above-
grade stone foundation walls, or loadbearing brick or stone walls.
Not Recommended
Removing, covering, or radically changing features of structural
systems which are important in defining the overall historic
character of the building so that, as a result, the character is
diminished.
Putting a new use into the building which could overload the ex-
isting structural system; or installing equipment or mechanical
systems which could damage the structure.
Demolishing a loadbearing masonry wall that could be augmented
and retained and replacing it with a new wall (i.e., brick or stone),
using the historic masonry only as an exterior veneer.
Leaving known structural problems untreated such as deflection of
beams, cracking and bowing of walls, or racking of structural
members.
Utilizing treatments or products that accelerate the deterioration of
structural material such as introducing urea-formaldehyde foam in-
sulation into frame walls.
34
-------
STRUCTURAL SYSTEM (continued)
Recommended
Protecting and maintaining the structural system by cleaning the
roof gutters and downspouts; replacing roof flashing; keeping
masonry, wood, and architectural metals in a sound condition; and
assuring that structural members are free from insect infestation.
Examining and evaluating the physical condition of the structural
system and its individual features using non-destructive techniques
such as X-ray photography.
Repairing the structural system by augmenting or upgrading in-
dividual parts or features. For example, weakened structural
members such as floor framing can be spliced, braced, or otherwise
supplemented and reinforced.
Replacing in kind—or with substitute material—those portions or
features of the structural system that are either extensively
deteriorated or are missing when there are surviving prototypes
such as cast iron columns, roof rafters or trusses, or sections of
loadbearing walls. Substitute material should convey the same
form, design, and overall visual appearance as the historic feature;
and, at a minimum, be equal to its loadbearing capabilities.
Not Recommended
Failing to provide proper building maintenance on a cyclical basis
so that deterioration of the structural system results.
Utilizing destructive probing techniques that will damage or
destroy structural material.
Upgrading the building structurally in a manner that diminishes the
historic character of the exterior, such as installing strapping chan-
nels or removing a decorative cornice; or damages interior features
or spaces.
Replacing a structural member or other feature of the structural
system when it could be augmented and retained.
Installing a replacement feature that does not convey the same
visual appearance, e.g., replacing an exposed wood summer beam
with a steel beam.
Using substitute material that does not equal the loadbearing
capabilities of the historic material and design or is otherwise
physically or chemically incompatible.
35
-------
STRUCTURAL SYSTEM (continued)
The following work is highlighted to indicate that it represents the particularly complex technical or design aspects of rehabilitation projects
and should only be considered after the preservation concerns listed above have been addressed.
Recommended
Not Recommended
Alterations/Additions for the New Use
Limiting any new excavations ^adjacent to historic founda-
tions to avoid undermining the structural stability of the
building or adjacent historic buildings.
Correcting structural deficiencies in preparation for the new
use in a manner that preserves the structural system and in-
dividual character-defining features.
Designing and installing new mechanical or electrical systems
when required for the new use which minimize the number of
cutouts or holes in structural members.
Adding a new floor when required for the new use if such an
alteration does not damage or destroy the structural system
or obscure, damage, or destroy character-defining spaces,
features, or finishes.
Creating an atrium or a light well to provide natural light
when required for the new use in a manner that assures the
preservation of the structural system as well as character-
defining interior spaces, features, and finishes.
Carrying out excavations or regrading adjacent to or within a
historic building which could cause the historic foundation to set-
tle, shift, or fail; or could have a similar effect on adjacent historic
buildings.
Radically changing interior spaces or damaging or destroying
features or finishes that are character-defining while trying to cor-
rect structural deficiencies in preparation for the new use.
Installing new mechanical and electrical systems or equipment in a
manner which results in numerous cuts, splices, or alterations to
the structural members.
Inserting a new floor when such a radical change damages a struc-
tural system or obscures or destroys interior spaces, features, or
finishes.
Inserting new floors or furred-down ceilings which cut across the
glazed areas of windows so that the exterior form and appearance
of the windows are radically changed.
Damaging the structural system or individual features; or radically
changing, damaging, or destroying character-defining interior
spaces, features, or finishes in order to create an atrium or a light
well.
36
-------
interior: Spaces, Features, An interior floor plan, (he arrangement of spaces, and built-in features and applied Finishes m
-------
Recommended
Interior Features and Finishes
Identifying, retaining, and preserving interior features and finishes
that are important in defining the overall historic character of the
building, including columns, cornices, baseboards, fireplaces and
mantles, paneling, light fixtures, hardware, and flooring; and
wallpaper, plaster, paint, and finishes such as stenciling, marbling,
and graining; and other decorative materials that accent interior
features and provide color, texture, and patterning to walls, floors,
and ceilings.
Protecting and maintaining masonry, wood, and architectural
metals which comprise interior features through appropriate sur-
face treatments such as cleaning, rust removal, limited paint
removal, and reapplication of protective coatings systems.
38
Not Recommended
Removing or radically changing features and finishes which are im-
portant in defining the overall historic character of the building so
that, as a result, the character is diminished.
Installing new decorative material that obscures or damages
character-defining interior features or finishes.
Removing paint, plaster, or other finishes from historically finished
surfaces to create a new appearance (e.g., removing plaster to ex-
pose masonry surfaces such as brick walls or a chimney piece).
Applying paint, plaster, or other finishes to surfaces that have been
historically unfinished to create a new appearance.
Stripping historically painted wood surfaces to bare wood, then ap-
plying clear finishes or stains to create a "natural look."
Stripping paint to bare wood rather than repairing or reapplying
grained or marbled finishes to features such as doors and paneling.
Radically changing the type of finish or its color, such as painting a
previously varnished wood feature.
Failing to provide adequate protection to materials on a cyclical
basis so that deterioration of interior features results.
-------
Interior Features and Finishes (continued)
Recommended
Protecting interior features and finishes against arson and van-
dalism before project work begins, erecting protective fencing,
boarding-up windows, and installing fire alarm systems that are
keyed to local protection agencies.
Protecting interior features such as a staircase, mantel, or
decorative finishes and wall coverings against damage during proj-
ect work by covering them with heavy canvas or plastic sheets.
Installing protective coverings in areas of heavy pedestrian traffic
to protect historic features such as wall coverings, parquet flooring
and panelling.
Removing damaged or deteriorated paints and finishes to the next
sound layer using the gentlest method possible, then repainting or
refinishing using compatible paint or other coating systems.
Repainting with colors that are appropriate to the historic building.
Limiting abrasive cleaning methods to certain industrial or ware-
house buildings where the interior masonry or plaster features do
not have distinguishing design, detailing, tooling, or finishes; and
where wood features are not finished, molded, beaded, or worked
by hand. Abrasive cleaning should only be considered after other,
gentler methods have been proven ineffective.
Evaluating the overall condition of materials to determine whether
more than protection and maintenance are required, that is, if
repairs to interior features and finishes will be necessary.
Not Recommended
Permitting entry into historic buildings through unsecured or
broken windows and doors so that interior features and finishes are
damaged by exposure to weather or through vandalism.
Stripping interiors of features such as woodwork, doors, windows,
light fixtures, copper piping, radiators; or of decorative materials.
Failing to provide proper protection of interior features and finishes
during work so that they are gouged, scratched, dented, or other-
wise damaged.
Failing to take new use patterns into consideration so that interior
features and finishes are damaged.
Using destructive methods such as propane or butane torches or
sandblasting to remove paint or other coatings. These methods can
irreversibly damage the historic materials that comprise interior
features.
Using new paint colors that are inappropriate to the historic
building.
Changing the texture and patina of character-defining features
through sandblasting or use of other abrasive methods to remove
paint, discoloration or plaster. This includes both exposed wood
(including structural members) and masonry.
Failing to undertake adequate measures to assure the preservation
of interior features and finishes.
39
-------
Interior Features and Finishes (continued)
Recommended
Repairing interior features and finishes by reinforcing the historic
materials. Repair will also generally include the limited replacement
in kind—or with compatible substitute material—of those exten-
sively deteriorated or missing parts of repeated features when there
are surviving prototypes such as stairs, balustrades, wood panel-
ling, columns; or decorative wall coverings or ornamental tin or
piaster ceilings.
Replacing in kind an entire interior feature or finish that is too
deteriorated to repair—if the overall form and detailing are still
evident—using the physical evidence to guide the new work. Ex-
amples could include wainscoting, a tin ceiling, or interior stairs. If
using the same kind of material is not technically or economically
feasible, then a compatible substitute material may be considered.
Not Recommended
Replacing an entire interior feature such as a staircase, panelled
wall, parquet floor, or cornice; or finish such as a decorative wall
covering or ceiling when repair of materials and limited replace-
ment of such parts are appropriate.
Using a substitute material for the replacement part that does not
convey the visual appearance of the surviving parts or portions of
the interior feature or finish or that is physically or chemically in-
compatible.
Removing a character-defining feature or finish that is unrepairable
and not replacing it; or replacing it with a new feature or finish that
does not convey the same visual appearance.
The following work is highlighted to indicate that it represents the particularly complex technical or design aspects of rehabilitation projects
and should only be considered after the preservation concerns listed above have been addressed.
Design for Missing Historic Features
Designing and installing a new Interior feature or finish if the
historic feature or finish is completely missing. This could in|
elude missing partitions,.stairs, elevators, lighting fixtures^
and wall coverings; or even entire rooms if au historic
spacer, features, and, finishes are missingorhave been
destroyed by inappropriate "renovations." The design may
be a restoration based on historical, pictorial, and physical
documentation; or be a new design that is compatibly with
the historic character of the building,: district, of
neighborhood.
Creating a false historical appearance because the replaced feature
is based on insufficient physical, historical, and pictorial documen-
tation or on information derived from another building.
Introducing a new interior feature or finish that is incompatible
with the scale, design, materials, color, and texture of the surviving
interior features and finishes.
40
-------
Interior Features and Finishes (continued)
Recommended
Alterations/Additions for the New Use
Accommodating service functions such as bathrooms,
mechanical equipment, and office machines required by the
building's new use in secondary spaces such as first floor
service areas or on upper floors.
Reusing decorative material or features that have had to be
removed during the rehabilitation work including wall and
baseboard trim, door moulding, panelled doors, and simple
wainscoting; and relocating such material or features in areas
appropriate to their historic placement.
Installing permanent partitions in secondary spaces; remov-
able partitions that do not destroy the sense of space should
be installed when the new use requires the subdivision of
character-defining interior spaces.
Enclosing an interior stairway where required by code so that
its character is retained. In many cases, glazed fire-rated
walls may be used.
Placing new code-required stairways or elevators in second-
ary and service areas of the historic building.
Not Recommended
Dividing rooms, lowering ceilings, and damaging or obscuring
character-defining features such as fireplaces, niches, stairways or
alcoves, so that a new use can be accommodated in the building.
Discarding historic material when it can be reused within the
rehabilitation project or relocating it in historically inappropriate
areas.
Installing permanent partitions that damage or obscure character-
defining spaces, features, or finishes.
Enclosing an interior stairway with fire-rated construction so that
the stairwell space or any character-defining features are destroyed.
Radically changing, damaging, or destroying character-defining
spaces, features, or finishes when adding new code-required stair-
ways and elevators.
41
-------
Interior Features and Finishes (continued)
Recommended
(>ealii^aft ltriui|i or * light well to provide natural light
when required for the new use in a manner that preserve*'
character-defining interior spaces, features, arid finishes a&
well as the structural systenu
Adding a new floor if required for the new Use in a. manner
that preservescharacter-defining structural features, and in-
terior tncci. features, and finishes.
42
Not Recommended
Destroying character-defining interior spaces, features, or finishes;
or damaging the structural system in order to create an atrium or
light well.
Inserting a new floor within a building that alters or destroys the
fenestration; radically changes a character-defining interior space;
or obscures, damages, or destroys decorative detailing.
-------
Mechanical Systema: The visible features of historic heating, lighting, air conditioning and plumbing systems may
Heating, Air Conditioning, sometimes help define the overall historic character of the building and should thus be retained and
Electrical, and Plumbing repaired, whenever possible. The systems themselves (the compressors, boilers, generators and
their ductwork, wiring and pipes) will generally either need to be upgraded, augmented, or entirely
replaced in order to accommodate the new use and to meet code requirements. Less frequently, in-
dividual portions of a system or an entire system are significant in the history of building
technology; therefore, the identification of character-defining features or historically significant
systems should take place together with an evaluation of their physical condition early in project
planning.
Recommended
Identifying, retaining, and preserving visible features of early
mechanical systems that are important in defining the overall
historic character of the building, such as radiators, vents, fans,
grilles, plumbing fixtures, switchplates, and lights.
Protecting and maintaining mechanical, plumbing, and electrical
systems and their features through cyclical cleaning and other ap-
propriate measures.
Preventing accelerated deterioration of mechanical systems by pro-
viding adequate ventilation of attics, crawlspaces, and cellars so
that moisture problems are avoided.
Repairing mechanical systems by augmenting or upgrading system
parts, such as installing new pipes and ducts; rewiring; or adding
new compressors or boilers.
Replacing in kind—or with compatible substitute material—those
visible features of mechanical systems that are either extensively
deteriorated or are missing when there are surviving prototypes
such as ceiling fans, switchplates, radiators, grilles, or plumbing
fixtures.
Not Recommended
Removing or radically changing features of mechanical systems
that are important in defining the overall historic character of the
building so that, as a result, the character is diminished.
Failing to provide adequate protection of materials on a cyclical
basis so that deterioration of mechanical systems and their visible
features results.
Enclosing mechanical systems in areas that are not adequately ven-
tilated so that deterioration of the systems results.
Replacing a mechanical system or its functional parts when it could
be upgraded and retained.
Installing a replacement feature that does not convey the same
visual appearance.
43
-------
Mechanical Systems (continued)
The following work is highlighted to indicate that it represents the particularly complex technical or design aspects of rehabilitation projects
and should only be considered after the preservation concerns listed above have been addressed.
Recommended
Not Recommended
Alterations/Additions for the New Use
Installing a new mechanical system so that character-defining struc-
tural or interior features are radically changed, damaged, or
destroyed.
UMMwuieih|
feature* are not*
Installing heating/air conditioning; units in the. Window
frames in such a:manner thai; the. sashapd frames Wpro-
tected. Window installations should be considere^ordy,
when all other viable heating/tooling systems would result
in significant damage to historfcmaterials.
Installing vertical runs of ducts, pipes, and cables in places where
they will obscure character-defining features.
Concealing mechanical equipment in walls or ceilings in a manner
that requires the removal of historic building material.
Installing "dropped" acoustical ceilings to hide mechanical equip-
ment when this destroys the proportions of character-defining in-
terior spaces.
Cutting through features such as masonry walls in order to install
air conditioning units.
Radically changing the appearance of the historic building or
damaging or destroying windows by installing heating/air condi-
tioning units in historic window frames.
44
-------
BUILDING SITE
The relationship between a historic building or buildings and landscape features within a
property's boundaries—or the building site—helps to define the historic character and should be
considered an integral part of overall planning for rehabilitation project work.
Recommended
Not Recommended
Identifying, retaining, and preserving buildings and their features
as well as features of the site that are important in defining its
overall historic character. Site features can include driveways,
walkways, lighting, fencing, signs, benches, fountains, wells, ter-
races, canal systems, plants and trees, berms, and drainage or ir-
rigation ditches; and archeological features that are important in
defining the history of the site.
Retaining the historic relationship between buildings, landscape
features, and open space.
Removing or radically changing buildings and their features or site
features which are important in defining the overall historic
character of the building site so that, as a result, the character is
diminished.
Removing or relocating historic buildings or landscape features,
thus destroying the historic relationship between buildings, land-
scape features, and open space.
Removing or relocating historic buildings on a site or in a complex
of related historic structures—such as a mill complex or farm—thus
diminishing the historic character of the site or complex.
Moving buildings onto the site, thus creating a false historical ap-
pearance.
Lowering the grade level adjacent to a building to permit develop-
ment of a formerly below-grade area such as a basement in a man-
ner that would drastically change the historic relationship of the
building to its site.
Protecting and maintaining buildings and the site by providing
proper drainage to assure that water does not erode foundation
walls; drain toward the building; nor erode the historic landscape.
Failing to maintain site drainage so that buildings and site features
are damaged or destroyed; or, alternatively, changing the site
grading so that water no longer drains properly.
45
-------
BUILDING SITE (continued)
Recommended
Minimizing disturbance of terrain around buildings or eJsewhere on
the site, thus reducing the possibility of destroying unknown arche-
ological materials.
Surveying areas where major terrain alteration is likely to impact
important archeo logical sites.
Protecting, e.g. preserving in place known archeological material
whenever possible.
Planning and carrying out any necessary investigation using profes-
sional archeologists and modern archeological methods when
preservation in place is not feasible.
Protecting the building and other features of the site against arson
and vandalism before rehabilitation work begins, i.e., erecting pro-
tective fencing and installing alarm systems that are keyed into
local protection agencies.
Providing continued protection of masonry, wood, and architec-
tural metals which comprise building and site features through ap-
propriate surface treatments such as cleaning, rust removal, limited
paint removal, and re-application of protective coating systems;
and continued protection and maintenance of landscape features,
including plant material.
46
Not Recommended
Introducing heavy machinery or equipment into areas where their
presence may disturb archeological materials.
Failing to survey the building site prior to the beginning of
rehabilitation project work so that, as a result, important arche-
ological material is destroyed.
Leaving known archeological material unprotected and subject to
vandalism, looting, and destruction by natural elements such as
erosion.
Permitting unqualified project personnel to perform data recovery
so that improper methodology results in the loss of important
archeological material.
Permitting buildings and site features to remain unprotected so that
plant materials, fencing, walkways, archeological features, etc. are
damaged or destroyed.
Stripping features from buildings and the site such as wood siding,
iron fencing, masonry balustrades; or removing or destroying land-
scape features, including plant material.
Failing to provide adequate protection of materials on a cyclical
basis so that deterioration of building and site features results.
-------
BUILDING SITE (continued)
Recommended
Evaluating the overall condition of materials to determine whether
more than protection and maintenance are required, that is, if
repairs to building and site features will be necessary.
Repairing features of buildings and the site by reinforcing the
historic materials. Repair will also generally include replacement in
kind—with a compatible substitute material—of those extensively
deteriorated or missing parts of features where there are suviving
prototypes such as fencing and paving.
Replacing in kind an entire feature of the building or site that is too
deteriorated to repair—if the overall form and detailing are still
evident—using the physical evidence to guide the new work. This
could include an entrance or porch, walkway, or fountain. If using
the same kind of material is not technically or economically feasi-
ble, then a compatible substitute material may be considered.
Not Recommended
Failing to undertake adequate measures to assure the preservation
of building and site features.
Replacing an entire feature of the building or site such as a fence,
walkway, or driveway when repair of materials and limited
replacement of deteriorated or missing parts are appropriate.
Using a substitute material for the replacement part that does not
convey the visual appearance of the surviving parts of the building
or site feature or that is physically or chemically incompatible.
Removing a feature of the building or site that is unrepairable and
not replacing it; or replacing it with a new feature that does not
convey the same visual appearance.
47
-------
BUILDING SITE (continued;
The following work is highlighted to indicate that it represents the particularly complex technical or design aspects of rehabilitation project
work and should only be considered after the preservation concerns listed above have been addressed.
Recommended
Design for Missing Historic Features
Designing aha corati ^
when the historic feature is
outbuilding, terrace, or cL ,
historical, pictorial, and physical
new design that is compatible with the histc
the building and site.
0
Not Recommended
Alterations/Additions for the New Use
Designing new onsite parking, loading docks, or ramps when
required by the new use so that they are as unobtrusive as
possible and assure the preservation of character-defining
features of the site.
Designing new exterior additions to historic buildings or ad-
jacent new construction which is compatible with the historic
character of the site and which preserve the historic relation-
ship between a building or buildings, landscape features, and
open space.
iru
Removing nonsignificant buildings; additions,
features yvhich detract from the historic character Of
r 'MliStil
site-
Creating a false historical appearance because the replaced feature
is based on insufficient historical, pictorial, and physical documen-
tation.
Introducing a new building or site feature that is out of scale or
otherwise inappropriate.
Introducing a new landscape feature or plant material that is visual-
ly incompatible with the site or that destroys site patterns or vistas.
Placing parking facilities directly adjacent to historic buildings
where automobiles may cause damage to the buildings or landscape
features or be intrusive to the building site.
Introducing new construction onto the building site which is visual-
ly incompatible in terms of size, scale, design, materials, color and
texture or which destroys historic relationships on the site.
Removing a historic building in a complex, a building feature, or a
site feature which is important in defining the historic character of
the site.
48
-------
The relationship between historic buildings, and streetscape and landscape features within a his-
toric district or neighborhood helps to define the historic character and therefore should always be
a part of the rehabilitation plans.
DISTRICT/
NEIGHBORHOOD
Recommended
Identifying, retaining, and preserving buildings, and streetscape,
and landscape features which are important in defining the overall
historic character of the district or neighborhood. Such features can
include streets, alleys, paving, walkways, street lights, signs,
benches, parks and gardens, and trees.
Retaining the historic relationship between buildings, and street-
scape and landscape features such as a town square comprised of
row houses and stores surrounding a communal park or open
space.
Protecting and maintaining the historic masonry, wood, and archi-
tectural metals which comprise building and streetscape features,
through appropriate surface treatments such as cleaning, rust
removal, limited paint removal, and reapplication of protective
coating systems; and protecting and maintaining landscape
features, including plant material.
Protecting buildings, paving, iron fencing, etc. against arson and
vandalism before rehabilitation work begins by erecting protective
fencing and installing alarm systems that are keyed into local pro-
tection agencies.
Not Recommended
Removing or radically changing those features of the district or
neighborhood which are important in defining the overall historic
character so that, as a result, the character is diminished.
Destroying streetscape and landscape features by widening existing
streets, changing paving material, or introducing inappropriately
located new streets or parking lots.
Removing or relocating historic buildings, or features of the
streetscape and landscape, thus destroying the historic relationship
between buildings, features and open space.
Failing to provide adequate protection of materials on a cyclical
basis so that deterioration of building, streetscape, and landscape
features results.
Permitting buildings to remain unprotected so that windows are
broken; and interior features are damaged.
Stripping features from buildings or the streetscape such as wood
siding, iron fencing, or terra cotta balusters; or removing or
destroying landscape features, including plant material.
49
-------
d/strict/NEIGHBORHOOD (continued)
Recommended
Evaluating the overall condition of building, streetscape and land-
scape materials to determine whether more than protection and
maintenance are required, that is, if repairs to features will be
necessary.
Repairing features of the building, streetscape, or landscape by
reinforcing the historic materials. Repair will also generally include
the replacement in kind—or with a compatible substitute
material—of those extensively deteriorated or missing parts of
features when there are surviving prototypes such as porch
balustrades, paving materials, or streetlight standards.
Replacing in kind an entire feature of the building, streetscape, or
landscape that is too deteriorated to repair—when the overall form
and detailing are still evident— u: the physical evidence to guide
the new work. This could include a storefront, a walkway, or a
garden. If using the same kind of material is not technically or
economically feasible, then a compatible substitute material may
be considered.
50
Not Recommended
Failing to undertake adequate measures to assure the preservation
of building, streetscape, and landscape features.
Replacing an entire feature of the building, streetscape, or land-
scape such as a porch, walkway, or streetlight, when repair of
materials and limited replacement of deteriorated or missing parts
are appropriate.
Using a substitute material for the replacement part that does not
convey the visual appearance of the surviving parts of the building,
streetscape, or landscape feature or that is physically or chemically
incompatible.
Removing a feature of the building, streetscape, or landscape that is
unrepairable and not replacing it; or replacing it with a new feature
that does not convey the same visual appearance.
-------
DISTRICT/NEIGHBORHOOD (continued)
The following work is highlighted because it represents the particularly complex technical or design aspects of rehabilitation projects and
should only be considered after the preservation concerns listed above have been addressed.
Recommended
Design for Missing Historic Features
Designing and constructing a new feature'of the building/
streetscape, or landscape when the historic feature is. com-
pletely missing, such as row house steps/a porch, streetlight,
or terrace, It may be a restoration based on historical, pic-
torial, and physical documentation; or be a new design that
is compatible with the historic.character*of; the.district or
neighborhood,
Alterations/Additions for the New Use
Designing required new parking so that it is as unobtrusive as
possible, i.e., on side streets or at the rear of buildings.
.'Shared" parking should also be planned so that several
business can utilize one parkins area as opposed to introduc-
ing'random, multiple lots.
HR ranstructing new, additions to historic
Riding* when required by the nevvuse, New work should
be'compatible with the historic character of the district or
ji?ig^bj?rhood in terms of size,-scale,'design, material, color,
!|temQYing nonsignificant buildings, additions, or streetscape
£nc| 1and$cape,Jeatures >hich; detract from. the historic
chuacter'of the district or the neighborhood.
Not Recommended
Creating a false historical appearance because the replaced feature
is based on insufficient historical, pictorial and physical documen-
tation.
Introducing a new building, streetscape or landscape feature that is
out of scale or otherwise inappropriate to the setting's historic
character, e.g., replacing picket fencing with chain link fencing.
Placing parking facilities directly adjacent to historic buildings
which cause the removal of historic plantings, relocation of paths
and walkways, or blocking of alleys.
Introducing new construction into historic districts that is visually
incompatible or that destroys historic relationships within the
district or neighborhood.
Removing a historic building, building feature, or landscape or
streetscape feature that is important in defining the overall historic
character of the district or the neighborhood.
51
-------
Although the work in these sections is quite often an important aspect of rehabilitation projects, it is usually not part of the overall process of
preserving character-defining features (maintenance, repair, replacement); rather, such work is assessed for its potential negative impact on
the building's historic character. For this reason, particular care must be taken not to obscure, radically change, damage, or destroy
character-defining features in the process of rehabilitation work to meet new use requirements.
52
-------
HEALTH AND SAFETY As a part of the new use, it is often necessary to make modifications to a historic building so that
CODE REQUIREMENTS it can comply with current health, safety and code requirements. Such work needs to be carefully
planned and undertaken so that it does not result in a loss of character-defining spaces, features,
and finishes.
Recommended
Identifying the historic building's character-defining spaces,
features, and finishes so that code-required work will not result in
their damage or loss.
Complying with health and safety code, including seismic codes
and barrier-free access requirements, in such a manner that
character-defining spaces, features, and finishes are preserved.
Working with local code officials to investigate alternative life safe-
ty measures or variances available under some codes so that altera-
tions and additions to historic buildings can be avoided.
Providing barrier-free access through removable or portable, rather
than permanent, ramps.
Providing seismic reinforcement to a historic building in a manner
that avoids damaging the structural system and character-defining
features.
Upgrading historic stairways and elevators to meet health and safe-
ty codes in a manner that assures their preservation, i.e., so that
they are not damaged or obscured.
Installing sensitively designed fire suppression systems, such as a
sprinkler system for wood frame mill buildings, instead of applying
fire-resistant sheathing to character-defining features.
Not Recommended
Undertaking code-required alterations to a building or site before
identifying those spaces, features, or finishes which are character-
defining and must therefore be preserved.
Altering, damaging, or destroying character-defining spaces,
features, and finishes while making modifications to a building or
site to comply with safety codes.
Making changes to historic buildings without first seeking alter-
natives to code requirements.
Installing permanent ramps that damage or diminish character-
defining features.
Reinforcing a historic building Using measures that damage or
destroy character-defining structural and other features.
Damaging or obscuring historic stairways and elevators or altering
adjacent spaces in the process of doing work to meet code re-
quirements.
Covering character-defining wood features with fire-resistant
sheathing which results in altering their visual appearance.
53
-------
HEALTH AND SAFETY CODE REQUIREMENTS (continued;
Recommended
Applying fire-retardant coatings, such as intumescent paints,
which expand during fire to add thermal protection to steel.
Adding a new stairway or elevator to meet health and safety codes
in a manner that preserves adjacent character-defining features and
spaces.
Placing a code-required stairway or elevator that cannot be accom-
modated within the historic building in a new exterior addition.
Such an addition should be located at the rear of the building or on
an Inconspicuous side; and its size and scale limited in relationship
to the historic building.
54
Not Recommended
Using fire-retardant coatings if they damage or obscure character-
defining features.
Radically changing, damaging, or destroying character-defining
spaces, features, or finishes when adding a new code-required stair-
way or elevator.
Constructing a new addition to accommodate code-required stairs
and elevators on character-defining elevations highly visible from
the street; or where it obscures, damages or destroys character-
defining features.
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ENERGY Some character-defining features of a historic building or site such as cupolas, shutters, transoms,
RETROFITTING skylights, sun rooms, porches, and plantings also play a secondary energy conserving role. There-
fore, prior to retrofitting historic buildings to make them more energy efficient, the first step
should always be to identify and evaluate the existing historic features to assess their inherent
energy conserving potential. If it is determined that retrofitting measures are necessary, then such
work needs to be carried out with particular care to insure that the building's historic character is
preserved in the process of rehabilitation.
Recommended Not Recommended
District/ Neighborhood
Maintaining those existing landscape features which moderate the
effects of the climate on the setting such as deciduous trees,
evergreen wind-blocks, and lakes or ponds.
Building Site
Retaining plant materials, trees, and landscape features, especially
those which perform passive solar energy functions such as sun
shading and wind breaks.
Installing freestanding solar collectors in a manner that preserves
the historic property's character-defining features.
Designing attached solar collectors, including solar greenhouses, so
that the character-defining features of the property are preserved.
Masonry/Wood/Architectural Metals
Installing thermal insulation in attics and in unheated cellars and
crawlspaces to increase the efficiency of the existing mechanical
systems.
Stripping the setting of landscape features and landforms so that
the effects of the wind, rain, and the sun result in accelerated
deterioration of historic materials.
Removing plant materials, trees, and landscape features, so that
they no longer perform passive solar energy functions.
Installing freestanding solar collectors that obscure, damage, or
destroy historic landscape or archeological features.
Locating solar collectors where they radically change the property's
appearance; or damage or destroy character-defining features.
Applying urea of formaldehyde foam or any other thermal insula-
tion with a water content into wall cavities in an attempt to reduce
energy consumption.
55
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ENERGY RETROFITTING ^continued")
Recommended
Installing insulating material on the inside of masonry walls to in-
crease energy efficiency where there is no character-defining in-
terior moulding around the window or other interior architectural
detailing.
Installing passive solar devices such as a glazed "trombe" wall on a
rear or inconspicuous side of all the historic building.
Roofs
Placing solar collectors on noncharacter-defining roofs or roofs of
nonhistone adjacent buildings.
Windows
Utilizing the inherent energy conserving features of a building by
maintaining windows and louvered blinds in good operable condi-
tion for natural ventilation.
Improving thermal efficiency with weatherstripping, storm win-
dows, caulking, interior shades, and, if historically appropriate,
blinds and awnings.
Installing interior storm windows with airtight gaskets, ventilating
holes, and/or removable clips to insure proper maintenance and to
avoid condensation damage to historic windows.
56
Not Recommended
Resurfacing historic building materials with more energy efficient
but incompatible materials, such as covering historic masonry with
exterior insulation.
Installing passive solar devices such as an attached glazed "trombe"
wall on primary or other highly visible elevations; or where historic
material must be removed or obscured.
Placing solar collectors on roofs when such collectors change the
historic roofline or obscure the relationship of the roof to
character-defining roof features such as dormers, skylights, and
chimneys.
Removing historic shading devices rather than keeping them in an
operable condition.
Replacing historic multi-paned sash with new thermal sash utilizing
false muntins.
Installing interior storm windows that allow moisture to ac-
cumulate and damage the window.
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HEALTH AND SAFETY CODE REQUIREMENTS (continued)
Recommended
Installing exterior storm windows which do not damage or obscure
the windows and frames.
Considering the use of lightly tinted glazing on non-character-
defining elevations if other energy retrofitting alternatives are not
possible.
Entrances and Porches
Utilizing the inherent energy conserving features of a building by
maintaining porches, and double vestibule entrances in good con-
dition so that they can retain heat or block the sun and provide
natural ventilation.
Interior Features
Retaining historic interior shutters and transoms for their inherent
energy conserving features.
New Additions to Historic Buildings
Placing new additions that have an energy conserving function
such as a solar greenhouse on non-character-defining elevations.
Mechanical Systems
Installing thermal insulation in attics and in unheated cellars and
crawlspaces to conserve energy.
Not Recommended
Installing new exterior storm windows which are inappropriate in
size or color, which are inoperable.
Replacing windows or transoms with fixed thermal glazing or per-
mitting windows and transoms to remain inoperable rather than
utilizing them for their energy conserving potential.
Using tinted or reflective glazing on character-defining or other
conspicuous elevations.
Enclosing porches located on character defining elevations to create
passive solar collectors or airlock vestibules. Such enclosures can
destroy the historic appearance of the building.
Removing historic interior features which play a secondary energy
conserving role.
Installing new additions such as multistory solar greenhouse addi-
tions which obscure, damage, destroy character-defining features.
Apply urea formaldehyde foam or any other thermal insulation
with a water content or that may collect moisture into wall cavities.
57
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NEW ADDITIONS TO An attached exterior addition to a historic building expands its "outer limits" to create a new pro-
H1STORIC BUILDINGS file. Because such expansion has the capability to radically change the historic appearance, an
exterior addition should be considered only after it has been determined that the new use cannot be
successfully met by altering non-character-defining interior spaces. If the new use cannot be met in
this way, then an attached exterior addition is usually an acceptable alternative. New additions
should be designed and constructed so that the character-defining features of the historic building
are not radically changed, obscured, damaged, or destroyed in the process of rehabilitation. New
design should always be clearly differentiated so that the addition does not appear to be part of the
historic resources.
Recommended
Placing functions and services required for the new use in non-
character-defining interior spaces rather than installing a new addi-
tion.
Constructing a new addition so that there is the least possible loss
of historic materials and so that character-defining features are not
obscured, damaged, or destroyed.
Locating the attached exterior addition at the rear or on an in-
conspicuous side of a historic building; and limiting its size and
scale in relationship to the historic building.
Not Recommended
Expanding the size of the historic building by constructing a new
addition when the new use could be met by altering non-character-
defining interior spaces.
Attaching a new addition so that the character-defining features of
the historic building are obscured, damaged, or destroyed.
Designing a new addition so that its size and scale in relation to the
historic building are out of proportion, thus diminishing the
historic character.
Designing new additions in a manner that makes clear what is
historic and what is new.
Duplicating the exact form, material, style, and detailing of the
historic building in the new addition so that the new work appears
to be part of the historic building.
Imitating a historic style or period of architecture in new additions,
especially for contemporary uses such as drive-in banks or garages.
58
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NEW ADDITIONS TO HISTORIC BUILDINGS (continued)
Recommended
Considering the attached exterior addition both in terms of the new
use and the appearance of other buildings in the historic district or
neighborhood. Design for the new work may be contemporary or
may reference design motifs from the historic building. In either
case, it should always be clearly differentiated from the historic
building and be compatible in terms of mass, materials, relation-
ship of solids to voids, and color.
Placing new additions such as balconies and greenhouses on non-
character-defining elevations and limiting the size and scale in rela-
tionship to the historic building.
Designing additional stories, when required for the new use, that
are set back from the wall plane and are as inconspicuous as possi-
ble when viewed from the street.
Not Recommended
Designing and constructing new additions that result in the diminu-
tion or loss of the historic character of the resource, including its
design, materials, workmanship, location, or setting.
Using the same wall plane, roof line, cornice height, materials,
siding lap or window type to make additions appear to be a part of
the historic building.
Designing new additions such as multistory greenhouse additions
that obscure, damage, or destroy character-defining features of the
historic building.
Constructing additional stories so that the historic appearance ot
the building is radically changed.
59
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APPENDIX B
SECRETARY OF THE INTERIOR'S
STANDARDS AND GUIDELINES
FOR ARCHITECTURAL AND
ENGINEERING DOCUMENTATION
B-l
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WW i ¦ ¦' ¦"¦'
Secretary of the Interior's
III! UJ!l!PJiJPi.tW«l-W,,U JIM limwui !'I. JWIW1
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On the cover: Virginia State Capitol section drawing, drawn by Gerhard Pfundner, 1989.
Back Cover: Troy Gas Light Co. Gasholder House, in Troy, New York, drawn by Eric DeLony.
Acknowledgements: These standards were compiled and reissued in 1990, by Caroline H.
Russell and the staff of the HABS/HAER Division. Thanks to Ronald M. Greenberg who
reviewed the manuscript and to all the staff involved in the production.
For sale by the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office
Washington, D.C. 20402
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SECRETARY OF THE INTERIOR'S
STANDARDS AND GUIDELINES
FOR
ARCHITECTURAL AND ENGINEERING
DOCUMENTATION:
HABS/HAER STANDARDS
Originally published in the Federal Register, Vol. 48, No. 190,
(Thursday, September 29,1983), pp. 44730-34.
Historic American Buildings Survey/
Historic American Engineering Record
Cultural Resources Program
U.S. Department of the Interior
National Park Service
Washington, D.C. 20013-7127
1990
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Secretary of the interior
Asst. Secretary, Fish & Wildlife & Parks
Director of the National Park Service
Deputy Director
Assoc. Director for Cultural Resources
Deputy Assoc. Director for Cultural Resources
Chiefs HABS/HAER Division
Acting Deputy Chief, HABS/HAER Division
Chief, HAER
Principal Architect, HABS
Senior Historian, HABS
Manuel Lujan, Jr.
Constance Harriman
James M. Ridenour
Herbert S. Cables, Jr.
Jerry L. Rogers
Rowland T. Bowers
Robert J. Kapsch
John A. Burns
Eric N. DeLony
Paul D, Dolinsky
Allison K. Hoagland
The Historic American Buildings Survey/Historic American Engineering Record
(HABS/HAER) a division of the National Park Service is responsible for documenting the
historic buildings, sites, structures, and objects of this country by producing measured draw-
ings, large format photographs, and written histories. The Library of Congress, Prints and
Photographs Division is the repository for these documents. The American Institute of
Architects, the American Society of Civil Engineers, and the other founding engineering
societies provide technical guidance. The regional offices of the National Park Service in
Philadelphia, Atlanta, Denver, San Francisco, and Anchorage administer the mitigation
documentation program.
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Preface
This booklet contains the Secretary of the Interior's Standards for Architectural and Engineering
Documentation as published in the Federal Registeron September 29,1983-commonly known
as the HABS/HAER Standards for the Historic American Buildings Survey/Historic American
Engineering Record (HABS/HAER) program of the National Park Service.
These performance standards are intended to define the products acceptable for inclusion in
the HABS/HAER collections within the Library of Congress.
Those products include:
Measured Drawings
Large Format Photographs
Written Data
These standards are as originally published in the Federal Register on September 29, 1983
except that the Recommended Sources of Technical Information and Annotated Bibliography
contained in the notice of 1983 have been updated to reflect current availability of publications
and other printed materials. These standards are not intended to be used alone but in
conjunction with guidelines and other publications listed in the bibliography included here.
These standards will be used to produce for the following reasons, documentation that meets
HABS/HAER standards:
• In preparing mitigation documentation in accordance with the National Historic
Preservation Act of 1966, as amended (16 U.S.C. 470 filSfiQ.)-
• In preparing documentation to be donated to the HABS/HAER collection.
• In preparing documentation as part of a HABS/HAER recording project.
Additional information concerning the HABS/HAER program is available by writing the Chief,
HABS/HAER Division, National Park Service, P.O. Box 37127, Washington, D.C. 20013-7127.
Robert J. Kapsch
Chief
Historic American Buildings Survey/
Historic American Engineering Record
National Park Service
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SECRETARY OF THE INTERIOR'S STANDARDS
for
ARCHITECTURAL AND ENGINEERING DOCUMENTATION1
These standards concern the development of documentation for historic buildings,
sites, structures, and objects. This documentation, which usually consists of measured
drawings, photographs, and written data, provides important information on a property's
significance for use by scholars, researchers, preservationists, architects, engineers, and
others interested in preserving and understanding historic properties. Documentation permits
accurate repair or reconstruction of parts of a property, records existing conditions for
easements, or may preserve information about a property that is to be demolished.
These standards are intended for use in developing documentation to be included in
the Historic American Building Survey (HABS) and the Historic American Engineering Record
(HAER) Collections in the Library of Congress. HABS/HAER in the National Park Service,
have defined specific requirements for meeting these Standards for their collections. The
HABS/HAER requirements include information important to development of documentation for
other purposes such as State or local archives.
Standard I. Documentation StiaTI Adequately Explicate and Illustrate What is Significant
or Valuable About the Historic Building. Site. Structure or Object Being Documented.
The historic significance of the building, site, structure or object identified in the
evaluation process should be conveyed by the drawings, photographs and other materials that
comprise documentation. The historical, architectural, engineering or cultural values of the
property together with the purpose of the documentation activity determine the level and
methods of documentation. Documentation prepared for submission to the Library of Congress
must meet the HABS/HAER Guidelines.
Standard II, Documentation Shall be Prepared Accurately From Reliable Sources^Wfth
Limitations Clearly Stated to Permit Independent Verification of the Information.
The purpose of documentation is to preserve an accurate record of historic properties
that can be used in research and other preservation activities. To serve these purposes, the
documentation must include information that permits assessment of its reliability.
Standard III. Documentation Shall be Prepared on Materials That are Readily
Reproducible. Durable and In Standard Sizes.
The size and quality of documentation materials are important factors in the preserva-
tion of information for future use. Selection of materials should be based on the length of time
expected for storage, the anticipated frequency of use and a size convenient for storage.
Standard IV. Documentation Shall be Clearly and Concisely Produced.
In order for documentation to be useful for future research, written materials must be
legible and understandable, and graphic materials must contain scale Information and location
references.
1 Federal Register, Vol. 46, No. 190, Thursday, September 29,1983, pp. 44730-44731.
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SECRETARY OF THE INTERIOR'S GUIDELINES
for
ARCHITECTURAL AND ENGINEERING DOCUMENTATION2
Introduction
These Guidelines link the Standards for Architectural and Engineering Documentation
with more specific guidance and technical information. They describe one approach to meeting
the Standards for Architectural Engineering Documentation. Agencies, organizations or
individuals proposing to approach documentation differently may wish to review their ap-
proaches with the National Park Service.
The Guidelines are organized as follows:
Definitions
Goal of Documentation
The HABS/HAER Collections
Standard 1: Content
Standard II: Quality
Standard III: Materials
Standard IV: Presentation
Architectural and Engineering Documentation
Prepared for Other Purposes
Recommended Sources of Technical Information
and Annotated Bibliography
Definitions
These definitions are used in conjunction with these Guidelines:
• Architectural Data Form-a one page HABS form intended to provide identifying
information for accompanying HABS documentation.
• Documentation-measured drawings, photographs, histories, inventory cards or other
media that depict historic buildings, sites, structures or objects.
• Field Photography-photography other than large-format photography, intended for the
purpose of producing documentation, usually 35mm.
• Field Records-notes of measurements taken, field photographs and other recorded
information intended for the purpose of producing documentation.
^ Federal Register, Vol. 48, No. 190, Thursday, September 29,1983, pp. 44731-34.
2
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• Inventory Card-a one page form which includes written data, a sketched site plan and
a 35mm contact print drymounted on the form. The negative with a separate contact
sheet and index should be included with the inventory card.
• Large Format Photographs-photographs taken of historic buildings, sites, structures
or objects where the negative is a 4 X 5", 5 X 7" or 8 X 10" size and where the
photograph is taken with appropriate means to correct perspective distortion.
• Measured Drawings-drawings produced on HABS or HAER formats depicting existing
conditions or other relevant features of historic buildings, sites, structures or objects.
Measured drawings are usually produced in ink on archivaliy stable material, such as
mylar.
• Photocopy-a photograph, with large-format negative, of a photograph or drawing.
• Select Existing Drawings-drawings of historic buildings, sites, structures or objects,
whether original construction or later alteration drawings that portray or depict the
historic value or significance.
• Sketch Plan-a floor plan, generally not to exact scale although often drawn from
measurements, where the features are shown in proper relation and proportion to one
another.
Goal of Documentation
The Historic American Buildings Survey (HABS) and Historic American Engineering
Record (HAER) are the national historical architectural and engineering documentation
programs of the National Park Service that promote documentation incorporated into the
HABS/HAER collections in the Library of Congress. The goal of the collections is to provide
architects, engineers, scholars, and interested members of the public with comprehensive
documentation of buildings, sites, structures and objects significant in American history and
the growth and development of the built environment.
The HABS/HAER Collections: HABS/HAER documentation usually consists of measured
drawings, photographs and written data that provide a detailed record which reflects a
property's significance. Measured drawings and properly executed photographs act as a form
of insurance against fires and natural disasters by permitting the repair and, if necessary,
reconstruction of historic structures damaged by such disasters. Documentation is used to
provide the basis for enforcing preservation easement. In addition, documentation is often the
last means of preservation of a property; when a property is to be demolished, its documenta-
tion provides future researchers access to valuable information that otherwise would be lost.
HABS/HAER documentation is developed in a number of ways. First and most usually,
the National Park Service employs summer teams of student architects, engineers, historians,
and architectural historians to develop HABS/HAER documentation, under the supervision of
National Park Service professionals. Second, the National Park Service produces
HABS/HAER documentation in conjunction with restoration or other preservation treatment, of
historic buildings managed by the National Park Service. Third, Federal agencies, pursuant
to Section 110(b) of the National Historic Preservation Act, as amended, record those historic
3
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properties to be demolished or substantially altered as a result of agency action or assisted
action (referred to as mitigation projects). Fourth, individuals and organizations prepare
documentation to HABS/HAER standards and donate that documentation to the HABS/HAER
collections. For each of these programs, different Documentation Levels will be set.
The standards describe the fundamental principals of HABS/HAER documentation. They
are supplemented by other material describing more specific guidelines, such as line weights
for drawings, preferred techniques for architectural photography, and formats for written data.
This technical information is found in the HABS/HAER Procedures Manual.
These guidelines include important information about developing documentation for State
or local archives. The State Historic Preservation Officer or the State library should be
consulted regarding archival requirements if the documentation will become part of their
collections. In establishing archives, the important questions of durability and reproducibility
should be considered in relation to the purposes of the collection.
Documentation prepared for the purpose of inclusion in the HABS/HAER collections must
meet the requirements below. The HABS/HAER office of the National Park Service retains
the right to refuse to accept documentation for inclusion in the HABS/HAER collections when
that documentation does not meet HABS/HAER requirements, as specified below.
Standard I: Content
1. Requirement: Documentation shall adequately explicate and illustrate what is sig-
nificant or valuable about the historic building, site, structure or object being documented.
2. Criteria: Documentation shall meet one of the following documentation levels to be
considered adequate for inclusion in the HABS/HAER collections.
a. Documentation Level I;
(1) Drawings: a full set of measured drawings depicting existing or historic
conditions.
(2) Photographs: photographs with large-format negatives of exterior and
interior views: photocopies with large-format negatives of select existing drawings or
historic views where available.
(3) Written data: history and description.
b. Documentation Level II;
(1) Drawings: select existing drawings, where available, should be
photographed with large-format negatives or photographically reproduced on mylar.
(2) Photographs: photographs with large-format negatives of exterior and
interior views, or historic views, where available.
(3) Written data: history and description.
c. Documentation Level III;
(1) Drawings: sketch plan.
(2) Photographs: photographs with large-format negatives of exterior and
interior views.
(3) Written data: architectural data form.
4
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d. Documentation Level IV: HABS/HAER inventory card.
3. Test: Inspection of the documentation by HABS/HAER staff.
4. Commentary: The HABS/HAER office retains the right to refuse to accept any
documentation on buildings, sites, structures or objects lacking historical significance.
Generally, buildings, sites, structures or objects must be listed in, or eligible for listing in the
National Register of Historic Places to be considered for inclusion in the HABS/HAER
collections.
The kind and amount of documentation should be appropriate to the nature and sig-
nificance of the buildings, site, structure or object being documented. For example, Documen-
tation Level I would be inappropriate for a building that is a minor element of a historic district,
notable only for streetscape context and scale. A full set of measured drawings for such a
minor building would be expensive and would add little, if any, information to the HABS/HAER
collections. Large format photography [Documentation Level III] would usually be adequate
to record the significance of this type of building.
Similarly, the aspect of the property that is being documented should reflect the nature
and significance of the building, site, structure or object being documented. For example,
measured drawings of Dankmar Adler and Louis Sullivan's Auditorium Building in Chicago
should indicate not only facades, floor plans and sections, but also the innovative structural
and mechanical systems that were incorporated in that building. Large format photography of
Gunston Hall in Fairfax County, Virginia, to take another example, should clearly show William
Buckland's hand-carved moldings in the Palladian Room, as well as other views.
HABS/HAER documentation is usually in the form of measured drawings, photographs,
written data. While the criteria in this section have addressed only these media, documentation
need not be limited to them. Other media, such as films of industrial processes, can and have
been used to document historic buildings, sites, structures or objects. If other media are to be
used, the HABS/HAER office should be contacted before recording.
The actual selection of the appropriate documentation level will vary, as discussed above.
For mitigation documentation projects, this level will be selected by the National Park Service
Regional Office and communicated to the agency responsible for completing the documenta-
tion. Generally, Level I documentation is required for nationally significant buildings and
structures, defined as National Historic Landmarks and the primary historic units of the National
Park Service.
On occasion, factors other than significance will dictate the selection of another level of
documentation. For example, if a rehabilitation of a property is planned, the owner may wish
to have a full set of as-built drawings, even though the significance may indicate Level II
documentation.
HABS Level I measured drawings usually depict existing conditions through the use of a
site plan, floor plans, elevations, sections and construction details. HAER Level I measured
drawings will frequently depict original conditions where adequate historical material exists, so
as to illustrate manufacturing or engineering processes.
5
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Level II documentation differs from Level I by substituting copies of existing drawings,
either original or alteration drawings, for recently executed measured drawings, tf this is done,
the drawings must meet HABS/HAER requirements outlined below. While existing drawings
are rarely as suitable as-built drawings, they are adequate in many cases for documentation
purposes. Only when the desirability of having as-built drawings is clear are Level I measured
drawings required in addition to existing drawings. If existing drawings are housed in an
accessible collection and cared for archivally, their reproduction for HABS/HAER may not be
necessary. In other cases, Level I measured drawings are required in the absence of existing
drawings.
Level III documentation requires a sketch plan if it helps to explain the structure. The
architectural data form should supplement the photographs by explaining what is not readily
visible.
Level IV documentation consists of completed HABS/HAER inventory cards. This level
of documentation, unlike the other three levels, is rarefy considered adequate documentation
for the HABS/HAER collections but is undertaken to identify historic resources in a given area
prior to additional, more comprehensive documentation.
Standard II; Quality
1, Requirement: HABS and HAER documentation shall be prepared accurately from
re ftable sources with limitations clearly stated to permit independent verification of information.
2. Criteria: For all levels cl documentation, the following quality standards shall be met:
a. Measured drawings: Measured drawings shall be produced from recorded,
accurate measurements. Portions of the building that were not accessible for measure-
ment should not be drawn on the measured drawings but clearly labeled as not accessible
or drawn from available construction drawings and other sources and so identified. No
part of the measured drawings shall be produced from hypothesis or non-measurement
related activities. Documentation Level I measured drawings shall be accompanied by a
set of field notebooks in which the measurements were first recorded. Other drawings
prepared for Documentation Levels II and III, shall include a statement describing where
the original drawings are located.
b. Large format photographs: Large format photographs shall clearly depict the
appearance of the property and areas of significance of the recorded building, site,
structure or object. Each view shall be perspective-corrected and fully captioned.
c. Written history: Written history and description for Documentation Levels I and II
shall be based on primary sources to the greatest extent possible. For Levels III and IV,
secondary sources may provide adequate information; if not, primary research will be
necessary. A frank assessment of the reliability and limitations of sources shall be
included. Within the written history, statements shall be footnoted as to their sources,
where appropriate. The written data shall include a methodology section specifying name
of researcher, date of research, sources searched, and limitations of the project.
6
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3. Test: Inspection of the documentation by HABS/HAER staff.
4. Commentary: The reliability of the HABS/HAER collections depends on documenta-
tion of high quality. Quality is not something that can be easily prescribed or quantified, but it
derives from a process in which thoroughness and accuracy play a large part. The principle
of independent verification of HABS/HAER documentation is critical to the HABS/HAER
collections.
Standard III: Materials
1. Requirement: HABS and HAER documentation shall be prepared on materials that
are readily reproducible for ease of access; durable for long storage; and in standard sizes for
ease of handling.
2. Criteria: For all levels of documentation, the following material standards shad be met:
a. Measured Drawings:
Readily Reproducible: Ink on translucent material.
Durable: Ink on archivally stable materials.
Standard Sizes: Two sizes: 19 X 24" or 24 X 36".
b. Large Format Photographs:
Readily Reproducible: Prints shalf accompany all negatives.
Durable: Photography must be archivally processed and stored. Negatives are required
on safety film only. Resin-coated paper is not accepted. Color photography is not
acceptable.
Standard Sizes: Three sizes: 4 X 5", 5 X 7", 8 X 10".
c. Written History and Description:
Readily Reproducible: Clean copy for xeroxing.
Durable: Archival bond required.
Standard Sizes: 8V2 X11".
d. Field Records:
Readily Reproducible: Field notebooks may be xeroxed. Photo identification sheet will
accompany 35 mm negatives and contact sheets.
Durable: No requirement
Standard Sizes: Only requirement is that they can be made to fit into a X12" archival
folding file.
3. Test: Inspection of the documentation by HABS/HAER staff.
4. Commentary: All HABS/HAER records are intended for reproduction; some 20,000
HABS/HAER records are reproduced each year by the Library of Congress. Although field
records are not intended for quality reproduction, it is intended that they be used to supplement
the formal documentation. The basic durability performance standard for HABS/HAER records
is 500 years. Ink on mylar is believed to meet this standard, while oolor photography, for
example, does not. Field records do not meet this archival standard, but are maintain in the
HABS/HAER collections as a courtesy to the collection user.
7
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Standard IV: Preservation
1. Requirement: HABS and HAER documentation shall be clearly and concisely
produced.
2. Criteria: For levels of documentation as indicated below, the following standards for
presentation will be used:
a. Measured Drawings: Level I measured drawings will be lettered mechanically
(i.e., Leroy or similar) or in a handprinted equivalent style. Adequate dimensions shall be
included on all sheets. Level III sketch plans should be neat and orderly,
b. Large format photographs: Level I photographs shall include duplicate
photographs that include a scale. Level II and III photographs shall include, at a minimum,
at least one photograph with a scale, usually of the principal facade.
c. Written history and description: Data shall be typewritten on bond, following
accepted rules of grammar.
3. Test: Inspection of the documentation by HABS/HAER staff.
Architectural dnd Engineering Documentation Prepared for Other Purposes
Where a preservation planning process is in use, architectural and engineering documen-
tation, like other treatment activities, are undertaken to achieve the goals identified by the
preservation planning process. Documentation is deliberately selected as a treatment for
properties evaluated as a significant, and the development of the documentation program for
a property follows from the planning objectives.
Documentation efforts focus on the significant characteristics of the property, as defined
in the previously completed evaluation. The selection of a level of documentation and the
documentation techniques {measured drawings, photography, etc.) is based on the sig-
nificance of the property and the management needs for which the documentation is being
performed. For example, the kind and level of documentation required to record a historic
property for easement purposes may be less detailed than that required as mitigation prior to
destruction of the property. In the former case, essential documentation might be limited to
the portions of the property controlled by the easement, for example, exterior facades; while
in the latter case, significant interior architectural features and non-visible structural details
would also be documented.
The principles and content of the HABS/HAER criteria may be used for guidance in
creating documentation requirements for other archives. Levels of documentation and the
durability and sizes of documentation may vary depending on the intended use and the
repository. Accuracy of documentation should be controlled by assessing the reliability of all
sources and making that assessment available in the archival record; by describing the
limitations of the information available from research and physical examination of the property
and by retaining the primary data (field measurements and notebooks) from which the archival
record was produced. Usefulness of the documentation products depends on preparing the
documentation on durable materials that are able to withstand handling and reproduction, and
in sizes that can be stored and reproduced without damage.
8
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Recommended Sources of Technical Information and Annotated Bibliography3
Recording Historic Structures is available through AIA Press, request publication #ISBN
1 -55835-018-7 (hardcover - $26.95) or #ISBN 1 -55835-021 -7 (softcover - $19.95), plus $3.00
shipping charge, and D.C. or Maryland sales tax, if applicable. AIA Order Department, 9 Jay
Gould Court, P.O. Box 753, Waldorf, Maryland 20601.
Recording Historic Structures. John A. Burns, editor. Washington, D.C.: The AIA Press,
1989.
With over 200 photographs, drawings, illustrations, a bibliography, and an index, this
handbook discusses each aspect of the documentation of historic structures, using
examples from the HABS/HAER collection.
The following printed materials are available by writing to: HABS/HAER - National Park
Service, P.O. Box 37127, Washington, D.C. 20013-7127. Please send check or money order
made out to the U.S. Treasury, to cover the cost of reproduction and handling. Availability and
price accurate as of June 1,1990.
Guidelines for Recording Historic Ships. Richard K. Anderson, Jr. Washington, D.C.:
Historic American Buildings Survey/Historic American Engineering Record, National Park
Service, 1988. Free, limited quantity.
This document marks the revival of the 1930's Historic American Merchant Marine Survey
and provides the definitive guide to maritime recording.
HABS Field Instructions for Measured Drawings. Washington, D.C.: Historic American
Buildings Survey/Historic American Engineering Record, National Park Service, 1981. $5.46
Gives procedures for producing measured drawings of historic buildings to HABS/HAER
standards.
HABS Historian's Procedures Manual. Washington, D.C.: Historic American Buildings
Survey/Historic American Engineering Record, National Park Service, 1983.' $6.63
Provides guidelines for producing written data on historic buildings to HABS/HAER
standards.
HAER Field Instructions. Washington, D.C.: Historic American Buildings Survey/Historic
American Engineering Record, National Park Service, 1981. $21.17
Provides guidelines for documenting to HABS/HAER standards, historic engineering and
industrial sites and structures with measured drawings and written data.
3
The original recommended sources of technical information contained in the Federal Register notice
of September 29, 1983 have been omitted since most are out of print and/or superceded. The above
recommended sources of technical information represent information available and current as of 1990.
9
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Specifications for the Production of Photographs. Washington, D.C.: Historic American
Buildings Survey/Historic American Engineering Record, National Park Service, 1984. $1.17
Provides criteria for the production of large format photographs for acceptance to the
HABS/HAER collection.
Transmitting Documentation to HABS/HAER WASO. Washington, D.C.: Historic
American Buildings Survey/Historic American Engineering Record, National Park Service,
1985. $3.64
Provides transmittal procedures and archival requirements of documentation for accep-
tance to the HABS/HAER collection.
Industrial Eye is available from (request publication #ISBN 0-89133-124-7): Decatur House
Museum Shop, 1600 H Street, NW, Washington, D.C. 20006. Please enclose a check or
money order made out to the National Trust for $34.95 plus $3.00 for postage and handling.
Industrial Eye. Photographs by Jet Lowe from the Historic American Engineering Record.
Washington, D.C.: National Trust for Historic Preservation, 1987.
Photographs of the county's engineering and industrial landmarks, illustrating the use of
large format photography to document historic engineering works and interpret industrial
processes. All photographs meet HABS/HAER standards.
A Record in Detail is available for $34.95 plus $2.50 postage and handling from:
University of Missouri Press, 200 Lewis Hall, Columbia, Missouri 65211.
A Record in Detail: The Architectural Photographs of Jack E. Boucher. Columbia:
University of Missouri Press, 1988.
A selection of the works of HABS photographer Jack E. Boucher, demonstrating the
effective use of large format photography to record historic buildings. All photographs
meet HABS/HAER standards.
Architectural Graphic Standards, Eighth Edition. American Institute of Architects. New
York: John Wiley & Sons, Inc., 1988.
The standard reference for architectural information, this edition is the first to have a
chapter on historic preservation, including four pages on HABS.
For further information about HABS/HAER contact:
Historic American Buildings Survey/
Historic American Engineering Record
National Park Service
P.O. Box 37127
Washington, D.C. 20013-7127
10
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Appendices
Appendix A
BELLOWS FALLS ARCH BRIDGE
BSLLO-V7S FALLS, VT. * 1905 < NORTH WALPOLE. N.H.
ofe_ «=sr-s- -
Measured Drawings:
Measured drawings shall be produced from recorded, accurate measure-
ments. Portions of the building that were not accessible for measurement
should not be drawn on the measured drawing but clearly labeled as not
accessible or drawn from available construction drawings and other sources
and so identified. Since measured drawings must be readily reproducible and
durable, HABS/HAER standards call for ink on translucent and archivally
stable materials, such as mylar. As illustrated in the reductions above,
drawings are produced in two standard sizes, 19 X 24" and 24 X 36".
11
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Appendix A
Large Format Photographs:
HABS/HAER standards require that large format (cameras that produce 4 X
5", 5 X 7", or 8 X 10" negatives) photographic documentation be done with
black and white film. A print must accompany each negative. The negatives
and contact prints are archivally treated and the contact paper is fiber-based
instead of resin-coated (RC). The paper and negatives must have had
sufficiently long washings in water in order to remove all processing chemicals.
I
12
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Appendix A
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lllateral for a loan.
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luary 17.
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Ember 15. 1949,
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-------
Appendix B
MITIGATIVE DOCUMENTATION PROGRAM
Under the provisions of the amended National Historic Preservation Act,
Federal agencies are required to produce documentation to HABS/HAER
standards on buildings, structures, sites, and objects that are listed in or
eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places and that are
threatened with demolition or substantial alteration by projects with Federal
involvement The five National Park Service regional offices charged with
external historic preservation responsibilities administer the HABS/HAER
mitigative documentation program. The actual work is usually conducted by
contractors and supervised by the responsible Federal agency. The
documentation produced is reviewed by the regional coordinator and trans-
mitted to the HABS/HAER Washington office for inclusion in the HABS/HAER
collections at the Library of Congress.
14
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SUMMARY
PERFORMANCE STANDARDS OF THE HISTORIC AMERICAN BUILDINGS SURVEY/HISTORIC AMERICAN ENGINEERING RECORD (HABS/HAER)
(SECRETARY OF THE INTERIOR'S STANDARDS FOR ARCHITECTURAL AND ENGINEERING DOCUMENTATION. FEDERAL REGISTER. SEPTEMBER 29. 1983, PP 44730-44734)
STANDARDS
REQUIREMENTS
CRITERIA
LEVEL
A. MEASURED DRAWING
B. PHOTOGRAPHS
on
C. WRITTEN DATA
D. OTHER
TESTS
COMMENTARIES
I. CONTENT
"DOCUMENTATION SHALL ADEQUATELY
EXPLICATE AND ILLUSTRATE WHAT IS
SIGNIFICANT OR VALUABLE ABOUT THE
HISTORIC BUILDING, SITE STRUCTURE
OR OBJECT BEING DOCUMENTED.''
Ill
LARGE FORMAT PHOTOGRAPHS
EXTERIOR I INTERIOR
LARGE fORMM
PHOTOCOPIES
- SELECT EXISTMG DMGS
- SELECT HISTOHC VIEWS
HISTORY ANO
DESCRIPTION
IN NARRATIVE
OR OUTLINE
FORMAT
IV
II. QUALITY
"HABS AID HAER DOCUMENTATION SHALL
BE PREPARED ACCURATELY, FROM RELIABLE
SOURCES WITH LIMITATIONS CLEARLY STATED
TO PERMIT INDEPENDENT VERIFICATION OF
INFORMATION ."
Ill
IV
MEASURED DRAWINGS ARE TO BE
PROOUCED FROM RECORDED.
ACCURATE MEASUREMENTS.
THOSE PORTIONS DRAWN FROM EXISTING
DRAWINGS OR OTHER SOURCES SHOULD BE
SO IDENTIFIED ANO SOURCES LISTEO.
PHOTOGRAPHS SHALL CLEARLY
DEPICT THE APPEARANCE OF THE
PROPERTY ANO AREAS Of
SIGNIFICANCE.
ALL VIEWS ARE TO BE PERSPECTIVE-
CORRECTED ANO FULLY CAPTIONEO.
BASED ON PRIMARY
SOURCES
SECONOMY SOURCES
MAY PHOV« MXOUATF
INFORMATION
INCLUDE:
tmrrinnni nzv
- NAME OF RESEARCH ft DATE OF RESEARCH
- SOURCES
- FRANK ASSESSMENT OF SOURCES AND
TH£tR LIMITATIONS
III. MATERIALS
"HABS ANO HAER DOCUMENTATION SHALL BE
PREPARED ON MATERIALS THAT ARE READILY
REPROOUCIBLE FOR EASE OF ACCESS. DURABLE
FOR LONG STORAGE; ANO JN STANDARD SIZES
FOR EASE OF HANDLING."
INK ON
TRANS-
LUCENT
MATERIAL
8x10"
PHOTO-
COPY
III
INK ON
BOND
PAPER
IV
INK ON
MVEfflORV
CARO
INK ON ARCHtVALLY STABLE MATERIAL
19x24*
OR
24x36"
8x10"
PHOTO-
COPY
8Vfex11*
INVEN-
TORY
CARD
PRINTS SHALL ACCOMPANY ALL NEGATIVES
MUST BE ARCHtVALLY PROCESSED,
NO R/C PAPER
4x5' OR 5x7* OR 8x10'
35mm
FILM
CLEAN COPY FOR XEROXING
ARCHIVAL BOND REQUIRED
gttxir
IV. PRESENTATION
"HABS AND HAER DOCUMENTATION SHALL
BE CLEARLY AND CONCISELY PRODUCED.''
Ill
IV
ADEQUATE DIMENSIONS ON ALL SHEETS
MECH
LETTER-
ING
EQUIVA-
LENT
DUPLI-
CATE
PHOTOS
WITH A
SCALE
STICK
SKETCH
PLANS
SHALL
BE NEAT
AND
ORDERLY
MIN. OF ONE PHOTO
WITH A SCALE
(PRINCIPAL FACADE)
TYPEWRITTEN ON
BONO
TYPED
ON
INVEN-
TORY
CARD
KIND ANO AMOUNT OF DOCUMENTATION
SHOULD BE APPROPRIATE TO THE NATURE
AND SIGNIFICANCE OF THE BUILDING. SITE.
STRUCTURE OR OBJECT BEING DOCUMENTED.
THE'PRINCIPLE OF INDEPENDENT VERIFICA-
TION IS CRITICAL IN ASSURING HIGH QUALITY
OF HABS/HAER MATERIALS.
BASIC DURABILITY PERFORMANCE STANDARD
IS 500 YEARS.
HABS/HAER ARE MOST WIDELY USED OF
SPECIAL COLLECTIONS AT THE LIBRARY
OF CONGRESS.
>
"O
"O
CD
3
Q-
x"
O
Robert J. Kapsch - from the Association for Preservation Technology Bulletin Vol. XXII No. 1121990, p.32.
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